2 new faces as Athletic Club name squad for Atlético clash | OneFootball

The squad of players set to be depended upon by Athletic Club for the club’s impending showdown with Atlético Madrid has on Friday been unveiled.

And it contains a pair of noteworthy inclusions.

As much comes with Ernesto Valverde and his coaching staff having been dealt a pair of blows in the buildup to their trip to the Wanda Metropolitano.

First, Óscar de Marcos picked up a one-game suspension last weekend.

Then, fellow defender Yuri Berchiche’s unavailability to face Atlético was confirmed, owing to an ankle injury.

Athletic boss Valverde, as a result, has turned towards Bilbao Athletic, calling up young right-back Hugo Rincón.

And also back in the matchday ranks of the Basque giants is Imanol, who could be in line for just a 5th start of the campaign on Saturday night.

Athletic Club will make the trip to Madrid in the knowledge that the eventual result could prove decisive in their hopes of clinching a Champions League berth for next season.

As much comes with the Copa del Rey holders sitting three points back of their upcoming hosts, who occupy 4th spot in the La Liga table.

Conor Laird | GSFN