Jorge Jesus is having a hard job picking Sporting’s lineup for Sunday’s derby against Moreirense. With Alan Ruiz injured and Gelson Martins and Daniel Podence both suspended, the manager is having trouble to find a right winger who can fulfil his expectations.
That’s why Chico Geraldes, a central midfielder who has only 18 minutes played for the club, should be adapted to the position. The 22-year-old spent the first part of the season at Moreirense and is still fighting to get a place in the team.
Who else is fit and could be having a chance there? Arsenal loanee Joel Campbell. With Bryan Ruiz and Bruno César having the other places in the line of three behind Bas Dost, the Arsenal loanee could be the other winger in the formation. He has already played on the right side on a few occasions this season.
But not this time, according to O Jogo today. The newspaper is near enough ruling out the possibility of the Arsenal owned player starting, saying the player is an ‘unlikely alternative’.
Campbell was left out of Sporting’s match-day squads several times last month, and as reported before, the club have no intention of finding a permanent deal with Arsene Wenger and Arsenal to sign him. That’s why he isn’t even considered for the few league games left.
With three goals and four assists in 27 games, Campbell started the season well, but ended up disappointing and didn’t meet expectations.
The 24-year-old’s contract with Arsenal is expiring next year, and after the five different loans he’s been through, it seems the Gunners will have to find a definitive solution this time.
Arsene Wenger has been trying to manage Campbell’s progress, but his plan so far hasn’t worked. He needs a new one.
