Saúl fit again, available for Flamengo in derby against Vasco | OneFootball

Saturday at Ninho do Urubu brought excellent news for Flamengo. Spanish midfielder Saúl Ñíguez took part in training as normal with the rest of the squad, showing that he is fully recovered from the knock to his left ankle that bothered him during the week. Thus, he is available for the big derby against Vasco this Sunday at 5:30 p.m. at Maracanã.

Saúl’s presence is a relief and a major boost for Flamengo’s midfield. The player is even tipped to start the match, forming a midfield trio with De La Cruz (or Allan) and Arrascaeta.

In addition, the medical department brought more encouraging news, with Alex Sandro and Jorginho making good progress in their recoveries. The left-back is further along and has a chance of being included in the squad, while the midfielder is more likely to return in the following game, in the Libertadores.

Probable lineup and Flamengo’s current form

With Saúl back, Flamengo’s probable lineup for the derby is: Rossi; Varela, Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira and Ayrton Lucas; Saúl, De La Cruz (Allan) and Arrascaeta; Plata, Samuel Lino and Pedro.

This Sunday’s derby is crucial for Flamengo’s ambitions in the Brasileirão. The team leads the competition with 50 points, just three ahead of second-placed Cruzeiro and four ahead of Palmeiras. A victory over their rivals would not only keep them at the top, but also provide an extra boost of morale for the decisive stretch of the season.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.