Ghana international Inaki Williams is a major doubt for the upcoming Europa League quarterfinals second leg between Athletic Bilbao and Rangers.
The Spanish outfit will play host to the Scottish giants on Thursday, as both teams battle for a slot in the last four of the competition. The first leg held in Scotland ended in a 0-0 draw, giving Bilbao a slight advantage heading into the return leg.
Prior to the crucial game, Athletic Bilbao have been dealt a major blow following an injury to Inaki Williams.
The Ghana international had to be subbed off after sustaining a strain to the adductor muscles in his left leg as his side inflicted a 3-1 win over Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.
“The player couldn’t finish the match against Rayo Vallecano. Iñaki Williams had to leave the field before the end of yesterday’s match at San Mamés due to a strain on the adductor muscles of his left leg. He awaits further treatment.” A statement from the club reads.
Williams has been instrumental in the competition, scoring 5 goals in 11 appearances, and is one of the team’s most experienced and reliable attacking outlets.
Currently sitting 4th in La Liga, Athletic will hope the injury is not serious, as they continue to fight on both domestic and European fronts. The Ghanaian’s pace, versatility, and work rate have been critical to Ernesto Valverde’s system.
Williams will undergo further tests to assess the severity of the injury and determine his availability for Thursday’s clash.
Since the club’s hopes of qualifying for Europe may depend on his fitness, both management and athletic supporters will be praying for good news.
