Elche, which already touches the permanence, wants to get fully into the fight for the ascent against Rayo (12.00 hours). Gonzalo Verdú returns to the defense and Nino is doubtful. Jonathas will repeat as an offensive reference in the reunion with Yacine Qasmi.
Potato during a workout, in archive image.
There are still seven points left to reach the 50 that usually guarantee permanence, although in reality Elche and its surroundings have been looking up more than down for some time. The ilicitano team, sixth, has earned the right to believe by its good dynamics, especially at home, where it has already collected six wins.
Potato try to hold the optimism, although the coach himself acknowledges that if Elche is able to win Rayo, a direct rival, this Sunday, there will be no choice but to “get excited” with other goals, clearly referring to the fight for a place in the phase of ascent.
The return of Gonzalo Verdú to the axis of the defense after serving penalty will be the main novelty of Elche, which has the casualties of French midfielder Nuke Mfuku and Víctor Rodríguez, both with injuries. Ramón Folch and Juan Francisco Martínez 'Nino' have accused some physical problems during the week, so they are doubts.
It seems unlikely that there will be more changes in the initial formation before the magnificent level exhibited by the team last day against Numancia.
Rayo comes to this game in a good sporting moment after chaining eleven league games in a row without losing. Paco Jémez recovers for this match the central Alejandro Catena, sanctioned last day.
The other novelty in the call is the presence of the Andres Martin midfielder, who has overcome a strong viral process and, although available, is not expected to start as a starter.
The Franco-Moroccan striker Yacine Qasmi, the Elche attacker to the winter market, will be a reference in the Rayo attack. “It is an advantage to meet him,” says Pacheta, who is confident that his attacker Jonathas wins the duel of predators in the area.
Probable lineups:
Vallecano Ray: Dimitrievsky; Advíncula, Milic, Catena, Luna; Valentin, Mario Suarez; Isi, Trejo, Fruit; Qasmi
Elche: Edgar Badía, Óscar Gil, Gonzalo Verdú, Dani Calvo, Juan Cruz; Manuel Sánchez, Iván Sánchez; Escriche, Pere Milla, Fidel and Jonathas.
Referee: Milla Alvendiz (Andalusian Committee).
Stadium: Vallecas
Time: 12.00
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