Napoli coach Antonio Conte explains why Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund were absent from the squad against Torino.
Napoli coach Antonio Conte has provided an update on the injuries affecting Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund, explaining why they were absent from the squad against Torino.
Conte revealed that McTominay had six stitches put in above his ankle after a clash and preferred to sit out training, while Hojlund returned tired from international duty with a quadricep issue.
“I won’t force anyone to play,” Conte said, emphasizing his cautious approach to managing the injuries. The coach expressed frustration at being pressed for details, stating that if the players had made the trip, it was because he intended to use them.
Conte explained that Hojlund’s quadricep issue was a result of his busy schedule, having played every game for Napoli and Denmark after a period of inactivity with Manchester United. “We play every three days, so even a strain can become a problem,” Conte said, highlighting the risks of pushing the players too hard.
The Napoli coach has alternatives in his squad and prefers to use a healthy player rather than risking injury to a key player. “It’s better to use a healthy horse than a lame one,” he said, emphasizing his pragmatic approach.
However, the availability of McTominay and Hojlund for the Champions League match against PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday is still uncertain. “We’ll see,” Conte said, reiterating his commitment to prioritizing the players’ health.
