Lens predicted XI v Nantes: Salis Abdul Samed returns to provide experience in midfield | OneFootball

RC Lens will reinstate their familiar 3-4-2-1 formation after shifting to a 5-3-2 shape in their 2-0 victory over Toulouse FC. A choice likely influenced by Salis Abdul Samed’s return to the starting lineup following Ghana’s group exit at the Africa Cup of Nations.

The midfielder was crucial in last season’s second-place finish and will look to provide a bit more experience to a young midfield that only became younger in his absence. Andy Diouf will keep his position while Neil El Aynaoui drops to the bench. Elsewhere, winter acquisition Jhoanner Chávez will likely be picked as the left-sided wing-back

David Pereira da Costa’s performances in the forward line continue to keep the more experienced Adrien Thomasson and Angelo Fulgini confined to substitute appearances around the hour mark for Les Sang et Or.

Lens likely lineup v Nantes

Brice Samba; Facundo Medina, Kevin Danso, Ruben Aguilar; Przemysław Frankowski, Salis Abdul Samed, Andy Diouf, Jhoanner Chávez; Florian Sotoca, David Pereira da Costa; Elye Wahi. (OuF)

GFFN | Nick Hartland