Julián Calero is grappling with a significant injury crisis ahead of Real Oviedo's Liga Hypermotion match against Real Valladolid. The manager has named a 22-man squad for the trip to the José Zorrilla stadium, with up to seven players unavailable due to injury or suspension. The Blues, sitting 15th in the table with five points, are searching for their second win of the season following a 0-0 draw with Burgos on September 6.
The lengthy injury list
The most significant absence is striker Carlos Fernández. The summer signing from Real Sociedad requires knee arthroscopy. Calero himself stated the player will be out for "two or three months". This adds to the absences of Chaira, who underwent shoulder surgery after a pre-season friendly against Deportivo at El Tartiere, and Nacho Vidal, who is recovering from a fractured finger.
Brandon Domingues, who did not secure a move in the summer window, has started training with the group but is not match-ready. Also, Aritz Aldasoro will serve a one-match suspension for the red card he received in the first half against Burgos. The situation is compounded by fitness doubts over David Costas and Chris Ramos, who missed the last match and whose ideal return is targeted for the upcoming fixture against Sabadell.
Calero's expected lineup
Faced with these issues, the manager appears to have a clear plan for the clash with Valladolid. Reports suggest the starting eleven could maintain the recent tactical system, unlike the approach used two weeks ago at Belmonte. The proposed lineup features Aarón Escandell in goal; a defence of Aisar Ahmed, Dani Calvo, Carlos Domínguez and Samu Rodríguez; a midfield with Youness, Alberto Reina, Pablo Sáenz and Dani Villahermosa; and an attack of Jacobo González and Isfan.
The rest of the squad includes Miguel Narváez, David Jiménez, David Costas, Marco Esteban, Juan Cruz, Enzo Pérez, Mikel Goti, Diego Menéndez, Estanis Pedrola, Víctor Mingo and Chris Ramos. Calero has urged the group to look forward and utilise the squad's depth during this difficult period.
The match at Valladolid is a challenge ahead of an international break and a tough away trip to face fourth-placed Sabadell on September 20. The full season schedule is available on our fixtures page.
