As Empoli prepare for their upcoming clash against Lecce, both sides are grappling with injury concerns that will impact their lineup choices. The home side face significant challenges in their attacking options. Two key players, Nicolas Haas and Pietro Pellegri, are out for the remainder of the season due to ACL injuries. Additionally, Ola Solbakken is sidelined with a shoulder issue, expected to keep him out of action until late January.
Despite these setbacks, Lorenzo Colombo is expected to spearhead the attack once again. The striker will be eager to end his recent goal drought, having failed to score in the last two league matches.
The visitors are also dealing with its share of injury woes. Hamza Rafia is unavailable due to a muscle injury, while Kialonda Gaspar’s season has come to a premature end following an ACL injury. There’s uncertainty surrounding Medon Berisha’s participation in Saturday’s match as he struggles with a muscle problem.
On a more positive note, the visitors received a boost with Lameck Banda’s return to training. The Zambian winger has recovered from an ankle injury sustained in November. However, while his return is encouraging, he is unlikely to feature in the starting lineup this weekend.
Empoli (3-4-2-1): Vasquez; Goglichidze, Ismajli, Viti; Gyasi, Anjorin, Grassi, Pezzella; Maleh, Esposito; Colombo.
Lecce (4-3-2): Falcone; Guilbert, Baschirotto, Jean, Dorgu; Coulibaly, Pierret, Kaba; Karlsson, Krstovic, Morente
