Italy manager confirms Jorginho will play despite suffering head injury

Italy manager Luciano Spalletti has revealed that Jorginho will play in the upcoming European qualifiers against North Macedonia and Ukraine despite picking up a head injury against Burnley.

The Euro 2020 holders are currently third in their qualifying group behind England and Ukraine. They require victories in their next two games to ensure that they avoid a play-off.

Jorginho has been recalled into the national set-up as a result and speaking to reporters, Spalletti confirmed that the midfielder will feature despite the incident on Saturday.

The 31-year-old suffered a cut on his head in stoppage time after a high foot from Jakub Kiwior. He required stitches after the game but Spalletti remains keen on playing him.

The Azzurri manager said that they will have to be very careful with Jorginho but require his services, he said: “Jorginho has stitches in his head from the last game and we have to be very careful, but we need his feet.”

The former Chelsea man started the season as a regular on the bench, but he has been a consistent starter for the Gunners since the 1-0 Premier League win over Manchester City.

Manager Mikel Arteta has preferred to play the Italian in the number six role which has allowed Declan Rice to press higher up the field. The combination has proved to be worthwhile.

With Thomas Partey injured until January, the Gunners need the midfielder’s presence over the forthcoming games. Hopefully, he will return unscathed after the Euro 2024 qualifiers.

The Gunners are currently one point behind leaders Manchester City in the Premier League, and have the chance to climb to the top with a favourable schedule after the international break.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com