Injured Moussa Niakhaté ruled out of Lyon clash with Lens

Senegal international Moussa Niakhaté will miss Olympique Lyonnais’ Ligue 1 meeting with RC Lens on Friday after suffering a hamstring injury.

The 30-year-old defender was forced to withdraw from Senegal’s squad during the current international break and returned to Lyon for further assessment.

According to L’Équipe, Niakhaté will not recover in time to feature against Lens, while his availability for Lyon’s UEFA Europa League meeting with Crystal Palace next Thursday is also uncertain.

Niakhaté suffers injury setback

The Senegal Football Federation confirmed on Thursday evening that Niakhaté had withdrawn from the squad because of an injury.

The centre-back had played a part in Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Comoros in Marseille on Sunday before returning to his club.

His latest setback comes at an important stage of the season, with Lyon competing across several competitions.

Lyon face defensive concern

Niakhaté has established himself as an important member of Lyon’s squad and has been regularly involved despite the club’s demanding schedule.

He has made eight appearances in all competitions this season, including three matches in UEFA Champions League qualifying.

Lyon will now have to cope without the Senegalese defender when they travel to Lens on Friday night.

His recovery will also be closely monitored ahead of the Europa League meeting with Crystal Palace on 15 October, with L’Équipe reporting that he remains a doubt for the game.