Valverde praised Lenglet's form in the last few weeks but also hailed the return of Umtiti to the squad
Ernesto Valverde held his customary press conference this morning and one of the big surprises was the early return of Samuel Umtiti to the match day squad. The centre back has missed the last few weeks of action due a troublesome knee injury.
"It's great news to have Umtiti back. He offers us more possibilities," said Valverde. "Lenglet has been performing at a high standard. In the last few weeks Pique and Lenglet have played in every game. A rest would've done them both some good. It offers us security that regardless of who plays we're well covered in that area which is great news."
Valverde was quizzed a little further on the progression of Lenglet in Umtiti's absence. "The players who arrive here always need time to adapt to the style of football. For defenders that isn't easy because we're a side which takes a lot of risks. We play from the back and leave space in behind. We know that players need to have strong technical skills. He's always focused and we're delighted with him. It's reflected in what he does, he keeps improving. When we're looking to start attacks he always helps out and deals with being under pressure well."
