A substitution which is likely to have severe consequences; Manolo Gabbiadini will not be in the starting XI for tonight’s Champions League tie against Besiktas. The Italian reacted badly to being taken off during Saturday’s 1-3 home defeat by Roma and Belgian Dries Mertens will start the match playing as a false number nine.
 

Sky Sports states that Gabbiadini still expected to start tonight’s clash which will see the vesuviani qualify for the knockout stage if they win and other results go their way. It’s clear however, that the 24-year-old does not have the confidence of his coach to replace the unfortunate Arek Milik, who is currently recovering from surgery to repair damaged cruciate knee ligaments. This lack of trust seems likely to push the player away from the San Paolo in January with Lazio already expressing an interest in Serie A and Everton continuing to monitor the situation from England.

Steve Mitchell @barafundler