Rasmus Hojlund has withdrawn from Napoli’s match against Inter. Today’s training session dashed the Danish striker’s hopes of joining the squad at the Maradona stadium.

As Arena Napoli’s Gianluca Vitale reports, Gli Azzurri boss Antonio Conte is considering his options as the Manchester United loanee struggles with a muscle injury.

According to Sky Sport reporters in Castel Volturno, “it was clear he wouldn’t make it. David Neres was tested, and he could be the alternative. Another option is Lang. He’s a significant absence after the two defeats against Torino and PSV. Tomorrow’s match will be crucial for regaining morale and getting points. Lucca is the natural replacement, but a false nine is a real possibility, with Neres warming up.”

As previously written about on this site, Lorenzo Lucca has scored just once in the league but could be a key option, even if his performances have come under criticism. A strong outing against Inter could help him get back into Conte’s good books and strengthen his case for becoming a starter. Recovering the form he showed last season at Udinese (where he scored 12 Serie A goals in 33 games) will go a long way in making that a reality.

Romelu Lukaku remains injured and is expected to stay out for the next few weeks and will return towards the end of the year.