Ferencvaros dramatically called back prolific striker Franck Boli after his spell training with the reserves, but the Ivorian can’t play against Celtic next week.
Boli has four goals in six games for the Hungarian side this season. However, he’s been embroiled in extensive off-field trouble that led to him walking out on the club and ultimately being forced to train with the second string.
As part of his punishment, Ferencvaros didn’t even name him in their Europa League squad for the group stages [UEFA]. Therefore, despite the fact they’ve dramatically called him back ahead of their league clash this weekend, they couldn’t play him at Parkhead on Tuesday night even if they wanted to.
Making a statement on their official website this week, manager Peter Stoger said the following on the issue: “Since this wasn’t the first time we had a problem with Franck Boli, we decided he couldn’t train with the first-team for a few weeks. We knew the team was losing its quality with this, but we wanted to make it clear to everyone that there are certain things that can’t be left without consequences.
“This was also important for the overall framework. Will Franck be a first-team member in the match against Zalaegerszeg? We’ll see if anything can happen.
“In any case, during the match week, I’m already looking forward to training again, so it’s conceivable that he’ll also get a place in Saturday’s league meeting.”
Ferencvaros can’t rely on their talisman at Celtic Park
Fair play to Ferencvaros for taking such a strong stance on this. Other managers would’ve been far too fearful of dropping their star striker from their Euro squad. But that’s exactly what Stoger has done, and it speaks volumes of his class.
In the past, Ferencvaros have had trouble with the player’s attitude during training and in matches. And with him walking out on the team several weeks ago, it’s a strong message to send out from Ferencvaros.
However, just because he isn’t available at Parkhead, it doesn’t mean that the Hungarians don’t have dangers in their side. They’ve already scored in both of their Europa League matches so far. Meanwhile, summer signing Ryan Mmaee has 11 goals in 17 appearances for the club [Transfermarkt]. They have a more than viable alternative there.
It would be interesting to know if Ferencvaros do now regret their decision. There was always going to come a time when Boli returned to action. They would likely want him available for Parkhead could be change things.
The Ivorian was part of the Ferencvaros side that won 2-1 at Celtic Park back in August 2020. But he certainly won’t be playing any part on Tuesday night.
In other news, Bonnyrigg Rose boss wants Celtic B games postponed during international breaks
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