Three absentees including Jaber for several weeks: Saint-Etienne weakened before Metz trip

AS Saint-Etienne approach Matchday 7 of Ligue 2 with three confirmed absentees for their trip to Metz on Saturday evening (20:00). Head coach Ian Cathro announced it at a press conference on Thursday: Mahmoud Jaber, Paul Eymard and Paalberg are ruled out.

Jaber’s situation is the most concerning. Having undergone surgery at the end of last season, the midfielder is still experiencing pain in the affected area and is not expected to return to action for several weeks. “Jaber’s situation is more complex because it’s an injury that dates back much longer,” Cathro explained. “It should still last several weeks because he has been away from the pitch for quite some time.”

These absences come at a delicate moment for the Greens. After five consecutive victories at the start of the season, Saint-Etienne suffered their first defeat last weekend away at Dunkerque (2-1). The club nonetheless remain Ligue 2 leaders and face a direct promotion rival on Saturday.

Good news, however, for Jakob Breum, whose return to competition is taking shape. “Jakob is improving well, we managed his absence properly,” Cathro said. “He comes from a foreign league, he’s discovering a new context, we preferred to take our time with this minor concern. He will be able to provide more and more playing time.” The Dane had not yet been able to establish himself since his arrival due to this injury.