Midfield pair pose Valencia problem
Monday, February 14, 2005
Article summary
Valencia CF could be without David Albelda and Francisco Rufete for Thursday's tie with FC Steaua Bucuresti.
Article body
Valencia CF could be without midfield pair David Albelda and Francisco Rufete for Thursday's UEFA Cup Round of 32 first-leg meeting with FC Steaua Bucuresti after both players picked up injuries at the weekend.
Bruised thigh
Valenica captain Albelda, who only returned in January from two months out with a torn hamstring, suffered bruising to his left thigh in the 2-1 home defeat by RC Deportivo La Coruña on Saturday, although he was able to complete the full 90 minutes.
Enforced change
Right winger Rufete sustained similar damage to his right thigh and made way for Pablo Aimar on 69 minutes. Neither player was able to join the squad for today's training session in Paterna and more tests will be conducted tomorrow.