Injured Dutch-Togolese forward Emanuel Emegha close to Strasbourg return

Emanuel Emegha is closing in on a long-awaited return to action after rejoining full training with RC Strasbourg, offering a timely boost ahead of their next Ligue 1 fixture.

The Dutch forward, of Togolese and Nigerian descent, has been sidelined since the end of November but is now edging closer to match fitness, raising hopes of his involvement in the upcoming clash against OGC Nice.

With attacking options stretched, Emegha’s return could not come at a better time. Strasbourg have been dealt a major blow with the loss of Joaquín Panichelli, who is ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering an ACL injury while on international duty.

The Argentine striker had been in sensational form, leading the Ligue 1 scoring charts before his setback.

In response, Strasbourg moved to strengthen their attack by bringing in David Datro Fofana on loan from Chelsea FC during the January transfer window. However, Emegha’s imminent return is expected to play a crucial role in filling the attacking void, especially after a four-month absence.

Encouragingly, reports indicate that Emegha trained normally this week as the team resumed preparations following the international break. He was joined by Chelsea loanee Aaron Anselmino, who is also recovering from a muscular injury that had limited his impact since arriving in the winter.

Meanwhile, Ben Chilwell, who missed Strasbourg’s last two matches before the break, has also returned to training and could be in contention for selection this weekend.

With key players regaining fitness, Strasbourg head into their next fixture with renewed optimism, as Emegha’s return could provide the attacking spark they have been missing.