Due to an injury, Jacques Alaixys Romao will be absent for the 6th and final day of the World Cup qualifiers against DR Congo in Brazil 2014. This absence is set to disrupt Didier Six’s plans for this Sunday’s match. However, Togo can rely on Romao for upcoming fixtures.
Having joined Marseille in the last winter transfer window, the Togolese international has quickly made an impact and remains a crucial asset in Elie Baup’s system. “He may not always shine brilliantly, but he is an extremely valuable player,” attests his former coach at Lorient, Christian Gourcuff. Gourcuff highlights Romao’s ability to recover balls, execute clean plays, and contribute to the team’s overall performance. He also emphasizes Romao’s warrior-like mentality.
While Romao’s presence strengthens Marseille, his departure continues to have a negative impact on Lorient. Christian Gourcuff expresses his sentiments, stating, “It’s not surprising that he has seamlessly integrated into Marseille. We feel it because we are still missing him.” Gourcuff recalls how Romao stabilized the team defensively and contributed significantly to their playing style during his time at Lorient. The departure last January not only destabilized the team but also left a void that, according to Gourcuff, they have yet to fill. This is evident in Gourcuff’s statement that they “did not find his replacement.”
Despite Romao’s absence, Lorient remains committed to their training policy, exemplified by the sale of young Mario Lemina to Marseille in the final hours of the transfer window.
