Puado (knee) is available for Friday's clash against Malaga after recovering from a torn ACL, though his playing time will depend on how he feels, according to coach Manolo Gonzalez. "We'll see how the game goes. I speak with Javi every day, and he's a very mature player who always tells you how he's feeling. Depending on that, he'll get minutes."
Analysis:Puado is finally in contention for his first competitive appearance since undergoing surgery on his right ACL in January. The forward was held out of last Friday's friendly against Ipswich as a precaution, but his recovery has now progressed enough for him to return to the squad. Given his lengthy absence, Puado is likely to begin against Malaga on the bench, with any minutes carefully managed as he gradually rebuilds match fitness.
