Arsenal star Jorginho was withdrawn in the dying stages of Saturday’s victory over Burnley with a head injury, but is still set to feature for Italy in the international break.
The 31-year-old took a boot to the head from teammate Jakub Kiwior, which resulted in a long stoppage before he left the pitch, with a significant amount of blood visibly present, leading to possible concussion concerns.
As seen recently in the case of Martin Odegaard, concussion protocols means that a player has to sit out of action for six days before being cleared to return, but Jorginho is still expected to feature for Italy despite what appeared to be a brutal knock.
Italy manager opens up on Jorginho injury
Italy manager Luciano Spalletti has now spoken about Jorginho’s head injury, and claimed that his side still need the veteran at the base of his midfield.
“Jorginho has stitches in his head from the last game and we have to be very careful, but we need his feet,” Spalletti stated via Gianluca Di Marzio.
Italy will face North Macedonia and Ukraine in Euro qualifying games this Friday and next Monday, and Jorginho may be set to feature despite the first game coming just six days after his injury.
Should Jorginho play for Italy?
Whilst Arsenal would likely have no problem with Jorginho featuring in next week’s game against Ukraine, there may be some concern if he is selected to start so soon after his injury blow on Friday.
Given the depth Italy have in midfield, it would be a surprise if they choose to take such a big risk over Jorginho against North Macedonia.
Jorginho has found himself a regular part of the Arsenal side in recent weeks, with Thomas Partey out injured, and the former Chelsea star has been impressive at the base of midfield, with fans recently praising him for the leadership and quality on the ball he has brought to the side.
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