PAOK prepares for derby against Iraklis amid squad selection challenges

PAOK is set to host newly promoted Iraklis at Toumba Stadium this Sunday for the seventh round of the Stoiximan Super League. The match marks the first time these two teams have faced each other in nine years, following Iraklis's return to the top flight. PAOK enters the game under pressure to recover from a recent 3-1 home defeat against Kalamata, which has intensified the need for a victory to boost team morale.

Head coach Alessio Lisci faces significant selection hurdles for the derby. Midfielder Dimitris Pelkas has been excluded from the 22-man squad due to a knee injury sustained during training, while Kiril Despodov remains sidelined with an illness. Additionally, Meite, Pavlenka, Tsiftsis, and Ali have been left out of the team, although Lousse has returned to the roster. Coach Lisci has been focusing on tactical adjustments to improve the team's defensive structure and attacking efficiency ahead of the encounter. The club is aiming to regain stability after a turbulent period following their exit from European competitions.