Luis Suarez has admitted it would be a big loss for Uruguay if strike partner Edinson Cavani is unable to feature against France in Friday’s World Cup quarterfinal, ESPN reports
Cavani scored both goals in the 2-1 round of 16 win over Portugal but was forced off during the second half with a left shin injury and, although initial tests have shown that the problem is not serious, the 31-year-old has struggled to walk normally and has not trained for the past few days.
Speaking at a press conference, Suarez praised the Paris Saint-Germain striker’s ability and fighting spirit, but conceded that it might not be enough for Uruguay to get him back on the pitch in time to face Les Bleus in Nizhny Novgorod.
“What Edinson stands for, in terms of my game and for the team, is essential – he has shown how important he is for La Celeste,” the Barcelona star said.
“I cannot talk about his recovery from injury, but I know that he has the desire, the attitude and is making the effort to do everything to be there — it does not only depend on him, though.”
Suarez pointed out that Uruguay have played without Cavani in the past, although never in a match as important as Friday’s showdown for a place in the World Cup semi-finals.
“We have played without Edinson already, during qualification, and the team adapted to the situation,” explained Suarez.
“This is different, though – this is a World Cup. There are players who can fill in for Edinson but anyway, the game will not depend on one single player – we have already shown a lot of progress for a collective point of view.”
While Cavani’s fitness doubt is a concern for Uruguay, France defender Adil Rami said, “We need to stop thinking that Cavani will play against us. I have had the same injury before.”
Elsewhere, in Montevideo, a mural has appeared depicting Cavani as James Bond after his sharp-shooting led his country past the Portuguese last Saturday.
Source: Punch
