Yamal return is set to strengthen Spain’s attacking options ahead of Sunday’s crucial UEFA Nations League encounter against England, with head coach Luis de la Fuente confirming that both Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal are expected to rejoin the squad on Friday.
Yamal sat out their last match for Spain due to a knee injury and Oyarzabal had to miss the game in order to be present at the birth of his second child in San Sebastian.
Both forwards will, however, make camp early in preparations for Sunday’s game, giving Spain a welcome boost as it seeks to hold off relegation from Group 3 of League A. De la Fuente said he had seen “good progress” from Yamal in his rehabilitation and was keen to get back to international duty.
Lamine is “very happy with his health and he is looking forward to joining the team tomorrow,” the manager of Spain said. De la Fuente also confirmed Oyarzabal’s return, telling them that the Real Sociedad striker was expected to arrive in time for the team’s evening training session. He further said: “Mikel too. One will show up at midday and the other somewhat later, but both will be with us tomorrow.
Their availability may be crucial when England are looking to make a move for Spain’s top spot. The European champions have a three-point lead at present over England and a draw or win will secure them the gold. The two countries have already booked their spots in the next round of the Nations League – Sunday’s game will be more about the last rankings in groups and less about the knockout stage.
