PAOK prepares for OFI match with injury concerns

PAOK is finalizing preparations for its upcoming eighth-round Stoiximan Super League match against OFI, scheduled for October 25 at 20:00 at the Pankritio Stadium. Manager Alessio Lisci is currently exploring tactical adjustments, including the potential simultaneous use of strikers Simon Banza and Pape Cherif Ndiaye, as Banza has shown promising form with recent goals and shots on target, while Ndiaye excels in linking play outside the box.

However, the team faces significant injury concerns ahead of the trip to Crete. Club captain Dimitris Pelkas and 23-year-old midfielder Tom Lous are struggling with physical issues; both players have been restricted to physiotherapy and gym work for several days, casting serious doubt on their availability for the weekend clash. Conversely, Kiril Despodov has returned to partial training and is trending toward being fit for the match.

Following a final training session at Toumba Stadium on Saturday morning, the squad is scheduled to depart by charter flight to Heraklion to finalize their preparations for the league fixture.