Lazio Veteran Will Return in Venezia as Marco Baroni Faces Two Selection Dilemmas | OneFootball

Lazio will receive a boost at the back as Patric is expected to rejoin the squad for this weekend’s trip to Venezia.

The Background

The Spaniard has been out of action with an ankle injury for several months, and some even feared he’d require surgery which would effectively rule him out for the remainder of the season. Luckily for the 32-year-old, the results of his medical consultation in Barcelona provided positive results, so the surgical option has been cast aside.

Patric Set for Venezia Return

According to La Lazio Siamo Noi, Patric has resumed training alongside his teammates this week, suggesting his return to the pitch is now imminent. Hence, the defender should earn a call-up for Saturday’s away league fixture against the struggling Venezia. On the other hand, Matias Vecino is expected to remain on the sidelines for another week.

Marco Baroni Has Two Dilemmas

On another note, Marco Baroni is reportedly facing a couple of selection headaches ahead of the weekend contest, as he’ll have to do without the injured Taty Castellanos and the suspended Nicolo Rovella.

Versatile Options

The source thus expects Boulaye Dia to lead the line with Pedro in support. However, the coach could also alter his choices by fielding the 37-year-old Spaniard as a False 9 and keeping the Senegalese star in his accustomed role as an attacking midfielder.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru vs Reda Belahyane

As for the midfield slot, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is deemed the favorite to fill in for Rovella alongside Matteo Guendouzi in the double pivot, but Reda Belahyane is pushing for his club debut. The new Lazio signing represents the more natural choice for the Regista role, but Baroni might prefer to gradually introduce him rather than immediately thrust him into the starting lineup.