Laporte trains despite knee knock as De la Fuente weighs starting role | OneFootball

Aymeric Laporte has trained with Spain ahead of tomorrow’s Saudi Arabia game in Atlanta, despite recent discomfort in a knee.

as.com understands the centre-back has felt the issue in recent days. He nevertheless completed the latest session before the match, scheduled for 18:00 Spanish time at Atlanta Stadium.

He was among the players presented to the media at Kennesaw State University on the outskirts of Atlanta and appeared in good spirits. Coach Luis de la Fuente acknowledged the knock when asked, said he is fit to play, and left open whether he will start.

Laporte’s partnership with Pau Cubarsí against Cabo Verde was a standout of Spain’s opener and the pair have praised each other since. Cubarsí noted the veteran’s experience gives him security and that they help each other, while Laporte described the youngster as an outstanding player.

The numbers underline that impression. Cubarsí was not dribbled past, made eight recoveries, one interception and one clearance, and completed 98% of his 107 of 109 passes. Laporte produced five recoveries, two interceptions, three clearances, won three of eight aerial duels, and completed 96% of his 106 of 110 passes. Together they misplaced only six of 219 passes.

With Lamine and Nico being managed carefully and Víctor unavailable, losing Laporte would be a major blow. For now the knock has not stopped him training and it is not being treated as overly serious.

Source: as.com