D’Aversa’s Selection Headache: Torino Boss Eyes ‘Match Point’ vs Parma with Near-Full Squad

Imagine strolling into the pub on a Friday night, only to find the barman’s got every pint flavour on tap. That’s Roberto D’Aversa right now ahead of Torino’s Serie A showdown with Parma. The gaffer’s labelled it their “first match point” to edge closer to safety, and with barely a bandage in sight, he’s got more tough calls than a ref on VAR duty.

As reported by Sam Wilson at Football Italia, D’Aversa’s pre-match chinwag was a goldmine of updates. Torino fans, dreaming of three points at the Olimpico, are buzzing.

Che Adams: The Scottish Spark Ready to Ignite?

Top of the bill? Che Adams. The Scotsman’s been itching for a start, and D’Aversa’s giving him the green light – fitness caveats and all. “He’s got the tech to unlock tight games like this,” the boss beamed, hinting Adams might lead the line despite not being match-sharp for 90 minutes.

It’s classic cat-and-mouse stuff: sub him on early if needed, or unleash from kick-off? D’Aversa’s not sweating the minutes; he’s banking on phases of play where Adams’ flair can bamboozle Parma’s backline. After his cheeky goal against Cagliari earlier this season, you can bet the home crowd’s chanting his name already.

Nkounkou, Njie, and Midfield Maestros in the Mix

Over on the flanks, it’s a proper pickle. Simon Nkounkou’s shaken off a niggle and trained flat out, while Njie – the attack-minded wideman – thrives bombing forward from the opposite side. “They’re not scrapping for the same shirt,” D’Aversa clarified, cleverly dodging a wing-war.

Then there’s Cesare Casadei, the midfield prospect with bags of talent but a dodgy injury rap sheet. “Once he clicks on his quality and grinds weekly, he’ll be a monster,” the coach urged. It’s tough love from D’Aversa, pushing the lad to channel that potential into consistent beast mode.

Anjorin’s Heartbreak Heroics and Squad Supremacy

Spare a thought for Faustino Anjorin, though. The winger’s gran passed this week, yet he stuck with the squad, training like a trooper. “He’s shot up two levels in a fortnight – reminding me of his Empoli days,” D’Aversa gushed, a rare soft spot in his gritty presser.

With just Aboukhlal sidelined, Torino’s squad’s fitter than a greyhound at Ascot. D’Aversa’s not moaning about thin ranks for once; he’s juggling gems. Parma, mid-table scrappers, won’t know what’s hit ’em if Torino hit stride.

This clash screams six-pointer. Torino’s hovering near the drop zone, Parma scrapping too. D’Aversa’s mindset? Treat it like Wembley. “Safety’s the prize,” he’s drilled into them. Expect high press, quick transitions – and maybe Adams nicking it late.

Fans, crack open the Bovril. Torino’s got the tools; now deliver. COYB!