Inter-Udinese: Bastoni poised for call-up but doubts over playing time remain

As previously predicted when Alessandro Bastoni sustained an injury during the last international break, the Inter Milan centre-back had to withdraw from key matches against Juventus and Napoli. However, he is now expected to be back in the line-up for the home game against Udinese. But it might not be at his full potential, as his first mostly full-group training session has only taken place today.

According to a report in Calciomercato, tomorrow’s training will offer Head Coach Simone Inzaghi more precise information about the defender’s fitness. In the meantime, another option being considered is the one employed in Napoli, with Carlos Augusto initially behind Dimarco, Acerbi as a central back, and Darmian on the right. The latter may happen if Juan Cuadrado is ready to take to the field from the first minute, considering Dumfries is simultaneously unavailable.

Two people are poised to potentially benefit from these less than perfect circumstances in terms of playing time. They are Yann Bisseck, should the decision be made to move Darmian into the wing position, or alternatively, Davide Frattesi might be adapted to a wing-back role given the midfield spots are firmly filled by Barella and Mkhitaryan.