Peru Nolaskoain And Gaizka Larrazabal Return To Training
Peru Nolaskoain was back in training on Monday at Lezama (AC)
Athletic’s preseason has been atypical. With six players testing positive for COVID-19 and others injured, the absences added up quickly. Thankfully, most players returned over the weeks and two more have now been brought back into the squad.
On Monday the club announced that Peru Nolaskoain and Gaizka Larrazabal returned to training. Nolaskoain had been nursing an ankle sprain since the start of the preseason while Larrazabal was among the players to test positive the initial health screenings.
Nolaskoain missed a great opportunity to prove himself this summer. The 21-year-old is coming off of a successful loan spell with Deportivo and figured to compete for a place in the first team. Now healthy, Nolaskoain hopes to still be able to convince Gaizka Garitano.
On the other hand, Larrazabal looks to be on his way out of the team. Following a disappointing debut season with the first team, reports claim that Larrazabal could be allowed to leave for free this summer. Several clubs have shown interest in the winger and Athletic would retain a buy-back clause if Larrazabal leaves.
Nolaskoain participated in Monday’s training on a limited basis while Larrazabal was fully integrated into the group. Having just recovered from his ankle sprain, Nolaskoain will likely be cautiously brought back so as not to risk any setbacks.
In addition to Nolaskoain and Larrazabal, Unai Simón was back in training as well. The goalkeeper served on international duty with Spain and returned to Lezama on Monday. At this point, Ibai Gómez is the only player sidelined with an injury. A fractured clavicle will keep Gómez out for a few more weeks, though he hopes to return before the end of the month.