Gattuso unsure if Osimhen will be ready for Sunday’s Serie A match

NAPOLI manager Gennaro Gattuso has expressed doubt about Victor Osimhen’s return to action for the club this weekend.

The Nigeria international is recovering from a head injury that landed him in the hospital last Sunday and missed Napoli’s UEFA Europa League fixture on Thursday.

The 22-year-old Osimhen suffered memory loss as a result of a fall in last Sunday’s 4-2 Serie A defeat to Atalanta.

Although he has been declared clear of injury and is eager to play again, club doctors have recommended some more rest for the Super Eagles striker.

After Thursday night’s 2-1 win over Granada which led to Napoli’s exit from the Europa League, Gattuso spoke with reporters and gave an update on the players’ fitness situation ahead of Sunday’s Serie A clash against Benevento.

“Ghoulam can help out,” the Italian said. “Mertens limps less, the ankle hurts less.  I don’t know if Osimhen will be there on Sunday.”

The former AC Milan and Italy midfielder has been under some pressure following Napoli’s recent slump and there are rumours he could be sacked soon.

Gattuso, a fiery, combative midfielder in his playing days, says he takes responsibility for Napoli’s results while still staying positive about finishing in the UEFA Champions League positions.

 “The players must rest assured,” he said. “I’m the one responsible. Does anyone have to pay?  That’s me. Without getting depressed we can get into the top four.”

Napoli are seventh in Serie A with 40 points from 22 matches, four points adrift of fourth-placed AS Roma who have played 23 matches.