Nico Serrano and Djaló in the frame for Elche trip

Athletic have this Thursday to settle the final picture of their squad before hosting Elche at San Mamés. The match, as MARCA reports, kicks off a three-game run in a week: Levante and Alavés follow.

The key talking point is how they cover the injuries. Coach Terzic starts this first fixture with Vivian, Guruzeta and Canales ruled out, so after Thursday’s training session it should become clear who will take over their spots.

Filial option in defence

For the defensive slot, MARCA points to Monreal, a central from the reserves, as the likely replacement. The outlet notes the player has already been dressed and listed for an official match to sit on the bench, which supports his path back into the first-team picture.

Up front, the article indicates the most advanced changes may come from Nico Serrano and Djaló. MARCA adds that in the last game against Atlético both had trained less than fully during the week due to different circumstances, and that’s why they weren’t included in a squad that did feature the filial Selton.

Training and momentum

Now the situation looks better: MARCA says Serrano trained with the first team in a session that also included Oyono. Still, Thursday’s session returns them to the specific rhythm of the group preparing for the weekend’s game.

Athletic, meanwhile, are looking to keep their good run going. They’ve already won at Celta (0-2) and Atlético (3-0) and go for a third straight victory. As MARCA frames it, the final decision on the Elche squad comes after this training session.