Senegal’s Sané Named in Squad Despite Injury Concerns
Senegal defender Lamine Sané has been named in Alain Giresse’s squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, despite currently being sidelined with a knee injury.
Sané, who captains French Ligue 1 side Bordeaux, has been ruled out of club duties for up to four weeks after sustaining a knee problem. The injury has kept him off the pitch for the Girondins, raising eyebrows following his inclusion in Senegal’s squad for the crucial third and fourth rounds of the 2015 AFCON qualifiers against Tunisia.
The decision by head coach Alain Giresse to call up the 27-year-old has prompted debate in Senegal and beyond, with many questioning whether the move is a gamble too far. However, Sané himself has played down concerns over his fitness, suggesting he could feature if needed.
“Of course I could play in the double confrontation. I’m ready if the coach trusts me,” Sané told sports outlet WaaSport.
The centre-back, who has been an integral part of Senegal’s defence in recent campaigns, insists the injury is minor and that he is nearing full recovery. “There’s nothing serious with my knee,” he said. “In two days, I’ll be back to training properly and there are still a few days left before the match.”
While the player remains optimistic, Bordeaux medical staff had initially estimated a four-week layoff, raising doubts over his readiness for international competition. Senegal, however, face a critical juncture in their qualification campaign and Giresse appears willing to take the risk on one of his most experienced players.
Senegal currently sit near the top of their qualification group and will take on Tunisia in back-to-back fixtures that could determine their path to the 2015 tournament in Morocco.
Giresse has yet to comment publicly on Sané’s condition or clarify whether the defender is expected to start. The national team coach is under pressure to deliver results, and his squad selections are under close scrutiny ahead of the high-stakes fixtures.
Sané’s presence in the team—even if only symbolic—could provide a psychological boost for the Lions of Teranga, who have struggled with injuries to key players in recent months.
Senegal are set to face Tunisia in Dakar before travelling for the return leg, with both matches expected to be fiercely contested. Whether Sané will feature remains to be seen, but his determination to play has added a new layer of intrigue to Giresse’s squad announcement.
