Lazio will have to do without Mattia Zaccagni in Sunday’s Derby della Capitale against their arch-rivals, Roma.
Mattia Zaccagni Ruled Out of Roma vs Lazio
Il Corriere dello Sport confirmed the captain’s absence after suffering a new muscle injury during the Coppa Italia final defeat against Inter Milan. This latest setback rounded off what has been a miserable campaign for the winger, who has been plagued by physical issues since pre-season, which has taken its toll on his performances on the pitch.
Three Lazio Attackers Vying to Replace Zaccagni
The Roman newspaper believes Pedro could get the nod on the left wing in what will be his last Derby before he hangs up his boots at the end of the season. The other option would be moving Tijjani Noslin to the flank, with Daniel Maldini playing as a centre-forward.
La Gazzetta dello Sport also expects Noslin to start on the left, with Boulaye Dia the favorite to lead the line at Maldini’s expense. The pink newspaper also expects Matteo Cancellieri to take over from Gustav Isaksen on the right wing.
Could Dele-Bashiru Start in Roma Derby?
In the middle of the park, Nicolo Rovella and Kenneth Taylor are almost certain of their starting roles. GdS expects Toma Basic to keep his place as well, but La Lazio Siamo Noi believes Fisayo Dele-Bashiru could replace him on the right side of the midfield trident.
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Luca Pellegrini Pushing to Replace Nuno Tavares
With Alessio Romagnoli serving a suspension, Mario Gila and Oliver Provstgaard will start at the heart of the backline. Despite his own goal in the final, Adam Marusic remains Maurizio Sarri’s most trusted right-back. On the other hand, the sources disagree over the identity of the left-back, with GdS expecting Luca Pellegrini to start, and LLSN backing Nuno Tavares to keep his place.
Lazio Probable XI (4-3-3): Motta; Marusic, Gila, Provstgaard, Pellegrini (Tavares); Basic (Dele-Bashiru), Rovella, Taylor; Cancellieri, Dia (Maldini/Pedro), Noslin