RC Lens’ options in defence remain limited, as AS Monaco make the visit to the Stade Bollaert this afternoon. 

Pierre Sage must contend with several absentees as they look to register a win that would keep them top of the Ligue 1 standings for another week. Kyllian Antonio, Jonathan Gradit, and Samson Baidoo all remain sidelined for Lens, which will provide opportunities once again for Ismaelo Ganiou and Nidal Celik, two bright prospects within Les Sang et Or’s ranks. They will feature alongside the more experienced Malang Sarr, with Matthieu Udol remaining out at wing-back.

There is also a big-name absence in Lens’ midfield, with Mamadou Sangaré missing from the Principality club’s visit. Whilst Allan Saint-Maximin’s fitness continues to build, he is expected to start once again from the bench. 

Lens predicted XI v Monaco

Robin Risser; Malang Sarr, Ismaelo Ganiou, Nidal Celik; Matthieu Udol, Andrija Bulatovic, Adrien Thomasson, Ruben Aguilar; Wesley Said, Odsonne Édouard, Florian Thauvin. (L’Éq)