Ben Old is a doubt for AS Saint-Étienne’s first-leg Ligue 1 relegation playoff against OGC Nice after Philippe Montanier revealed the New Zealand international is dealing with a hamstring problem. Montanier said the decision on Old’s involvement would be made at the last minute, leaving his status uncertain heading into the match.
Despite that doubt, L’Équipe reports that Old is expected to play and could even start on the left side of Saint-Étienne’s defence. The potential inclusion of the 24-year-old would be an important boost for Les Verts as they look to take an advantage into the playoff tie against Nice.
Saint-Étienne will, however, be without Djylian N’Guessan for the fixture. Montanier also confirmed the return of Florian Tardieu, although the midfielder is not yet ready to complete a full 90 minutes. As a result, Tardieu is not expected to start at the Chaudron.
The expected Saint-Étienne lineup suggests a mix of defensive stability and attacking intent, with Gautier Larsonneur in goal and a back line that may include Old, Maxime Bernauer, Julien Le Cardinal and Kévin Pedro. In midfield, Aimen Moueffek, Abdoulaye Kanté and Augustine Boakye are projected to feature, while Zuriko Davitashvili, Lucas Stassin and Irvin Cardona could lead the attack.
The playoff carries significant importance for Saint-Étienne as they fight to preserve their Ligue 1 status. Any late update on Old’s availability will be closely watched, given the uncertainty around his hamstring issue and his possible role in such a crucial first leg.
