Obviously without Nathan Ngoy who had surgery on the meniscus of his left knee a few days ago and for whom Standard announced an absence estimated between 4 and 6 months. This is more than the 3-4 months initially planned, but the duration was revised – and therefore extended – after the medical staff received this Tuesday the report from the specialist who operated on Ngoy. In the event of a setback – which we obviously don’t wish for him – we can even ask ourselves the question of a possible premature end to the season for the talented 21-year-old Belgian defender.
Around 400 supporters at Standard’s open training this Tuesday (VIDEO)
David Bates, injured in the knee and forced to give up his place at the hour mark on Sunday in the Walloon clash, was also absent this Tuesday. The day before, his knee was still causing him pain and the signs were not particularly encouraging. His case will be reviewed day by day, but the Scot is uncertain for Sunday.
As for Boli Bolingoli, also absent, he still has several weeks left.
In short, all this strongly limits Ivan Leko‘s choices in the defensive sector.
With the group for ten days
Fortunately, Souleyman Doumbia is back in the game. The left-handed defender, whose last appearance dates back to April 12 (!), seems to have recovered from his hamstring problems for good. He has resumed collective training for around ten days and could concretely come into play on Sunday at Bosuil.
This Tuesday, among the 21 field players (+ 4 goalkeepers but not Henkinet, absent), we in any case saw him take part in the entire session. It consisted of a warm-up without a ball, a possession with support then different oppositions on three-quarters of the field.
During a 12 against 11 (yes, yes) which looked like a draft of setting up potential starters, Doumbia wore the chasuble of the “good” team. Surprising, from Tuesday and during an open session… Could this be a trap, Ivan?
Who is Souleyman Doumbia, Standard’s new left back?
Regardless, Doumbia – who extended until 2026 – was used on the left of the central trio, alongside Hautekiet and Sutalo, while Lawrence and Camara occupied the flanks. According to our information, Doumbia naturally lacks the pace to last ninety minutes but represents a credible solution to start in Antwerp if Bates were indeed to forfeit. Calut and Lawrence are also applying.
Enigmatic Djukanovic
For the rest, we saw encouraging signs coming from Sotiris Alexandropoulos, in the midfield. He could get closer to a start too, unlike Djukanovic who has several times appeared disinterested, even resigned to the loss of the ball. Which Leko must not really appreciate.
Finally, we were able to see all of Zeqiri’s rage when he missed two or three clear chances in front of goal. The Swiss, who hit the ground in disappointment, obviously still needs a little confidence but his determination is intact. Standard will greatly need it, at Bosuil and later.
