Iosifov prepares to return as Sarco becomes a doubt

Iosifov nearing return from left hamstring injury; Sarco doubtful for Valladolid clash with muscular problem from Ceuta.

Sporting returned to training at Mareo after two days' rest following their win in Ceuta, observing a minute's silence for Tenerife forward Jesús de Miguel, who died after a collision with Andorra's goalkeeper.

Russian winger Nikita Iosifov is close to returning from a left biceps femoris injury sustained during the derby against Real Oviedo on 27 September and could feature as soon as next weekend against Real Valladolid at El Molinón on Sunday (18:30). However, manager Nicolás Larcamón faces a setback with Argentine forward Alejo Sarco, who missed the first training session of the week and is now a doubt for the Valladolid fixture due to a muscular problem.

Sarco suffered the injury in Ceuta on Sunday and was forced to leave the pitch. The exact severity of the left leg muscle injury remains unknown pending further assessment. Sporting currently have seven players sidelined—Iosifov, Ferrari, Casas, Konrad, Manu, Gelabert and Pablo García—with Sarco's status to be determined over the coming days.