Blow for Lazio as Key Duo Won’t Recover in Time for Juventus Clash

Lazio midfielder Nicolo Rovella won’t be available for this Sunday’s Serie A showdown against his former employers, Juventus.

The Background

The midfielder was determined to put last season’s injury woes behind him and start anew, but he picked up a muscle issue in the second match of the season against his original club, Genoa. The 25-year-old has been targetting a return this weekend, but has seemingly run out of time.

Lazio Duo Nicolo Rovella & Adam Marusic Unavailable for Juventus Game

According to Il Messaggero (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Rovella and Adam Marusic won’t be available at Gennaro Gattuso’s disposal before the following contest against Parma (October 24). The two players worked alongside their teammates at the start of Wednesday’s training session, but then moved to personalised workouts.

Luckily for Gattuso, he has been able to rely on Reda Belahyane and Romano Floriani Mussolini, who have impressed while deputising for the injured duo. The two young players have each made a strong case for a permanent starting role.

Matteo Cancellieri Back for Juventus vs Lazio

While Rovella and Marusic won’t be available, Matteo Cancellieri should make the trip to Turin. The Italian winger sustained a knock while on vacation at the start of the international. In his absence, Gustav Isaksen put on a solid display against Monza, so the Roman might have to settle for a backup role against Juventus.

Albert Gudmundsson Remains Out

Finally, Albert Gudmundsson will remain on the sidelines for a few more weeks before undergoing new clinical tests to shed light on his condition and set a clear timetable for his return to the pitch. The 29-year-old attacker dislocated his shoulder during a UEFA Nations League game between Iceland and Estonia.