Lazio Defender Leaves National Team Camp After Suffering New Injury
Lazio full-back Adam Marusic has sustained a new injury while on international duty as his nightmarish season continues.
Adam Marusic Has Been Struggling With Injuries Since August
The 34-year-old’s woes began on the opening matchday of the Serie A campaign, picking up a hamstring injury only 19 minutes into Lazio’s away clash against Bologna. The veteran tried to resume action in October, only to suffer a new relapse.
Last weekend, Marusic was finally deemed fit enough for a call-up, so he travelled with the team to Naples, but Gennaro Gattuso kept him on the bench for the duration of the game.
Marusic Had Rejoined Lazio Squad Last Sunday
Despite having only recently returned from injury, Lazio gave Marusic the green light to join Montenegro’s squad. The club’s intention was for the defender to gain some valuable playing time in the UEFA Nations League, helping him regain his top physical condition. However, the decision has spectacularly backfired.
Mirko Vucinic Confirms New Marusic Injury
According to La Lazio Siamo Noi, Marusic will return to Formello in the next few hours after suffering yet another injury. The right-back was nowhere to be seen during Montenegro’s 2-1 win over Latvia on Thursday. The news has also been confirmed by former Roma and Juventus striker Mirko Vucinic, who now serves as the national team’s head coach.
I’m very sorry for Marusic’s absence. We don’t know if the previous injury has recurred or if it’s a new problem. We think the latter is more likely. I’m sorry to have lost a professional of his caliber, a leader of the team alongside (Stefan) Jovetic and (Stefan) Savic.
Gattuso’s Defensive Options in Marusic’s Absence
Luckily for Gattuso, he found himself a reliable right-back in Romano Floriani Mussolini, who has been ever-present in the starting lineup since Marusic’s injury. Meanwhile, Manuel Lazzari has provided depth on the bench.
However, with Josip Sutalo ruled out for several weeks, the versatile Marusic could have offered an additional option at centre-back. Gattuso will rely on Oliver Provstgaard, Diogo Leite, and Danilho Doekhi, but he’ll be hoping that all three remain fit and healthy.
