Sadiq named in Valencia's travelling squad to face Barcelona amid injury fears

Valencia forward Sadiq Umar has been included in the travelling squad for today's highly-anticipated La Liga clash against Barcelona, despite battling to overcome a knee injury. 

The Nigerian international experienced some discomfort in his right knee, which limited his participation in training sessions this week.

However, Umar's presence in the squad is a welcome boost for Valencia, who will be looking to build on their impressive 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad last week. 

Umar was ineligible to play against his parent club due to a clause in his loan agreement, which stipulates that Valencia must pay Real Sociedad €300,000 before he can face them.

The 27-year-old joined Valencia on loan in January, seeking regular playing time after struggling to establish himself at Real Sociedad. 

Umar's spell at Real Sociedad has been marred by injury, including a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury he sustained against Getafe.

Despite making a promising start to his Real Sociedad career, scoring on his debut against Atlético Madrid, Umar has found it difficult to regain his form and secure consistent playing time.

Umar's loan move to Valencia has provided him with a fresh start, and he has already made a positive impact, scoring his first goal for the club in their Copa del Rey victory over Ourense FC on January 14. 

The Nigerian international's strike sealed the win for Valencia, who advanced to the next round of the competition.

Valencia will be hoping that Umar can replicate his goal-scoring form against Barcelona today, as they seek to cause an upset against the La Liga giants.

Ejim Kaycee

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