SempreInter.Com
·20 November 2024
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Yahoo sportsSempreInter.Com
·20 November 2024
Injury-hit Hakan Calhanoglu returned to the Inter Milan camp earlier today after fulfilling his international duty with Turkey.
According to Sky Sports journalist Matteo Barzaghi via FCInterNews, he will not undergo his medical checks today as initially planned.
Hakan Calhanoglu suffered a thigh injury during the break.
Indeed, this niggling problem forced him off in last weekend’s home clash against Wales.
Turkey would go on to draw that match. Kerem Akturkoglu’s last-gasp miss from the spot cost them dearly.
Perhaps Vincenzo Montella’s side didn’t realize the gravity of Akurkoglu’s wastefulness at the time.
However, they would soon come to regret it.
Despite Calhanoglu’s decision to stay with the national team, Turkey lost 3-1 at Montenegro last night.
Unable to help his teammates on the field, the 30-year-old watched from the bench as Turkey slipped to second in their group.
Instead of securing automatic League A promotion, they’ll move to the UEFA Nations League playoffs next March.
Calhanoglu underwent an MRI scan immediately after the match against Wales.
However, Inter planned to make further checks shortly upon his return to Appiano Gentile.
That plan has changed, though. Instead, the ex-AC Milan midfielder will carry out further tests tomorrow.
As a result, he’ll probably skip Saturday’s trip to the Bentegodi.
Even if he makes the matchday squad, Calhanoglu will likely start the game against Hellas Verona on the bench.
Indeed, Simone Inzaghi has already lined up Kristjan Asllani as his replacement.
Despite Calhanoglu’s importance, the Inter manager doesn’t want to take unnecessary risks.
Therefore, Asllani could make his first Serie A start since mid-September.
On the other hand, Calhanoglu could return to the starting XI in the UEFA Champions League next week.
Inter will lock horns with RB Leipzig, looking to maintain their near-flawless European campaign.