Copete one step away from return eight months later against Villarreal

Copete set to return to action for Valencia against Villarreal on Saturday after eight months out with a knee injury suffered in February.

José Copete is poised to make his comeback for Valencia this Saturday against Villarreal at Mestalla, eight months after suffering a meniscal injury to his left knee in a match against the same opponent on 22 February. The centre-back underwent two surgical procedures, which extended his recovery significantly. After several weeks training with the squad, Copete is now in contention for manager Javier Aguirre's squad list. Valencia also reported that midfielder Umar Sadiq could be available within 10–12 days.