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Reims faces a player shortage due to injuries and international duties, with no plans for winter recruitment.
As the January transfer window remains steadfastly quiet for Stade de Reims, the team featuring the renowned Harambee Stars defender Joseph Okumu is bracing for a challenging period.
The French Ligue 1 side, currently sitting ninth in the league, is grappling with a significant shortage of key players.
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Okumu, a vital pillar in the Reims defense, and his teammates are set to navigate upcoming fixtures without several key squad members.
The situation has been compounded by the simultaneous occurrence of the Africa Cup of Nations and the Asian Cup, stretching from January 13 to early February.
This scheduling conflict leaves Will Still's Reims without six players due to international duties. The number could further escalate with the impending announcement of Gambia's squad on Tuesday, January 9.
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Adding to the club's woes, a growing list of injuries and suspensions further depletes their options.
Thomas Foket, the 29-year-old right-back, is suspended for the next game, while 27-year-old Marshall Munetsi faces weeks on the sidelines with an ankle injury.
Despite these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope for the team with the anticipated return of Maxime Busi (24), Josh Wilson-Esbrand (21), and midfielder Valentin Atangana (18) from their respective injuries.
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However, the Reims hierarchy has been resolute in its decision not to seek reinforcements during this transfer window.
"The management was clear on the fact that there would be no recruitment this winter," the coach revealed.
This stance echoes concerns raised by Still last year regarding the club's reluctance to provide cover for outgoing players.
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Reports had surfaced about Still's discussions with Sunderland, fueled by his apprehension that Reims might struggle in the absence of key players.
The upcoming period will undoubtedly test the squad's resilience and depth.
Reims, without the services of Oumar Diakité of Ivory Coast and Moroccan players Yunis Abdelhamid and Amir Richardson, will need to rely heavily on the available players to maintain their league position.
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As the team prepares for their next Ligue 1 tie, all eyes will be on Joseph Okumu and his fellow teammates to step up and navigate through this challenging phase.
The coming weeks will be a testament to the team's spirit and ability to overcome adversity.
With 26 points from 17 matches so far this season, Reims has shown potential, but the true measure of their strength will be how they fare in the face of these unprecedented squad challenges.
Follow our Pulse Sports WhatsApp channel for more updates.
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