Prados back in group training as Valverde regains midfield option | OneFootball

Prados has returned to group work at Lezama, a timely lift for Ernesto Valverde as a demanding season, with the Champions League demanding heavy effort, reaches its run-in.

As reported by as.com, the midfielder had been training on his own outside before stepping back in with his team-mates. At present only Nico Williams and Paredes are out, with Yeray suspended. Egiluz and Sannadi are not yet cleared, though close.

Prados has featured only twice this season, against Rayo and Betis. He underwent surgery on the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in September and hopes to play some part before the year ends. The operation, which coincided with the Girona game at San Mamés, went well.

The plan set a six or seven month recovery, forcing Valverde to reshuffle without a key midfield partner for Galarreta and Jauregizar. He dipped into the squad depth, giving minutes to academy product Rego and moving Unai Gómez into the double pivot.

Tied to Athletic until 2031, Prados was progressing in his third top-flight campaign when injury halted him. Not an immediate regular under Valverde, he grew into his role with personality and authority to claim his place.

Meanwhile, Laporte, called up on Friday by Spain coach Luis de la Fuente for friendlies against Serbia and Egypt, trained with the group after missing at least Tuesday’s session. Wednesday’s workout was behind closed doors and yesterday was a rest day.

Source: as.com