Uruguay manager keeps Real Madrid midfielder’s position secret amid fitness concerns: ‘It’s an advantage for us’

Uruguay manager keeps Real Madrid midfielder’s position secret amid fitness concerns: ‘It’s an advantage for us’ Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde’s versatility gives Uruguay several tactical options, but manager Diego Forlan is keeping his plans for the Real Madrid midfielder under wraps ahead of the international friendly against Argentina.  Speaking before the encounter (h/t Mundo Deportivo ), Forlan praised the 28-year-old’s ability to perform in different midfield roles while insisting that his eventual position will depend on how Uruguay approach the match. The fixture also marks Valverde’s return to the Uruguay squad after missing the previous international break.  However, his physical condition remains an important consideration, particularly after the muscle problem he suffered during Real Madrid’s Clasico victory over Barcelona on October 25. Forlan highlights Valverde’s importance to Uruguay’s tactical flexibility Forlan believes Valverde’s ability to operate in several positions is a considerable advantage for the national team.  Rather than committing to one specific role, the manager wants to assess the midfield combination before deciding how best to utilise the Real Madrid captain. “It’s an advantage for us that he and other players are versatile, that they can play in different positions and do so well. That’s Fede’s strength and, in that respect, we’re confident.  Forlan is yet to decide on Valverde’s position. (Photo by Ernesto Ryan/Getty Images) “We’ll have to see how we set up the midfield to know in which position we’ll use him to make us stronger,” said the former striker. Uruguay prepare for demanding Argentina encounter Uruguay face Argentina and the Dominican Republic during the November international window, giving Forlan an opportunity to assess his squad against different opposition. He is particularly looking forward to facing Argentina, recognising the significance of the rivalry despite the friendly status of the fixture. “We know it’s going to be a brilliant match, very competitive, against a top-class side,” Forlan said. He also explained why he welcomed the opportunity to arrange the encounter. “These are matches which, however friendly they may be, are steeped in a long-standing rivalry and a rich history. For us and for them, facing each other is a wonderful challenge,” he added. Valverde’s fitness is a concern for Uruguay and Real Madrid Valverde has admitted that he his not entirely fit. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) The biggest uncertainty surrounding Valverde is whether he can perform at his usual intensity.  The midfielder experienced muscular discomfort during Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona at Camp Nou on October 25 and was substituted shortly after half-time. He subsequently acknowledged that he had not completely recovered , despite being pleased to represent his country. “I’m still feeling a bit of discomfort and I’m not 100% fit, but you always have to come up for the national team – it’s always good to be here,” he had said. For now, Forlan’s comments suggest Uruguay will retain flexibility when deciding Valverde’s role, but his physical condition could ultimately determine how much responsibility he receives.  Understandably so, with Real Madrid also relying heavily on their captain, managing his workload will be important for both club and country.