Lucas Leiva: Brazilian to start in central defender role against Milan

The second training session following the 2-0 Europa League loss to Sevilla took place today at the Formello: Simone Inzaghi and his side took to the pitch to prepare for their next challenge against Milan in the Coppa Italia. With several players still sidelined with injury,  a concerning topic is related to the Biancocelesti’s emergency in defense. The trio of Wallace, Bastos, and Luiz Felipe do not look like they will be able to recover for the match while Stefan Radu is suspended, giving Inzaghi very few options for his backline. As a result of this news, it looks as if alternative solutions will have to be tested.

Brazilian central midfielder Lucas Leiva looks likely to start in the center of defense alongside Francesco Acerbi (to his left) and Patric (to his right). The 32-year-old is trusted by Inzaghi and as he is reluctant to change to a back four formation, he feels that this is his best bet for Lazio to come out on top against Gennaro Gattuso’s side. If this arrangement is to be confirmed, Milan Badelj looks set to play in a regista role and Senad Lulic and Romulo look to be starting on the left and right flanks. For this rest of the midfield and attack, it is said that Inzaghi will likely fill in the rest of his formation following the next few training sessions.

An important note: Primavera players Sergio Kalaj, Jorge Silva, Mauro Zitelli, and Alessio Bianchi have been called to train with the first team.

Tags Alessio Bianchi Brazilian Jorge Siva Lazio Lucas Leiva Mauro Zitelli Sergio Kalaj Simone Inzaghi