Monaco’s Philippe Clement expecting either Ruben Aguilar or Vanderson to return ahead of Troyes | OneFootball

Speaking after AS Monaco’s 3-0 defeat to local rivals OGC Nice in the Côte d’Azur derby on Sunday, manager Philippe Clement revealed that he expects either Rueb Aguilar (29) or Vanderson (21) to return for next weekend’s fixture against ESTAC Troyes.

Since Les Monégasques’ first-leg victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League, Clement has been without a recognised right-back. Chrislain Matsima, who was recalled early from his loan at FC Lorient, filled in against Stade Brestois and again in the second leg against Bayer Leverkusen.

For the match against Nice, Clement reverted to a back three and played Krépin Diatta as a right-wing back, citing Matsima’s lack of fitness as the reason behind a tactical switch to a back three. Matsima barely featured for Les Merlus but has been required to play matches every three to four days since injuries to Aguilar and Vanderson.

However, both are edging towards a return, as Clement revealed. In a post-match press conference, attended by Get French Football News’ Luke Entwistle, Clement said that one of the two centre-backs will likely return to face Troyes next Sunday.

“I hope they can be back [to face Troyes]. Probably one of the two will be. We will see,” said the Belgian manager.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle