Nico Paz
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Could return soon
Paz (strain) didn't play in Argentina's friendly against Honduras on Saturday, but coach Lionel Scaloni revealed that "Nico could have been available today", Telemundo Deportes reports.
Analysis: Paz has shown positive signs in the final days of his recovery process from the muscle injury he picked up in May, and he's expected to be an option in Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria. While he's unlikely to start, his availability would give the team a solid option, adding differential talent in the attacking midfield zone. He might contend for playing time with Nicolas Gonzalez (strain), Lionel Messi (hamstring) and Giuliano Simeone, gaining increased value if one of the other injured players fails to recover in the short term.
Final days of recovery
Paz (muscular) is in the final days of his recovery and is trending toward being available for Argentina's friendly against Iceland on June 9, according to Hernan Castillo.
Analysis: Paz himself posted on his Instagram Story that he is in his final days of recovery, with the coaching staff taking a cautious approach by keeping him out of the first pre-tournament friendly against Honduras to avoid any setback. The midfielder's return is expected for the beginning of next week and will be a welcome boost for coach Scaloni given his importance to Argentina's creative setup, and all signs are pointing toward him being available when the tournament gets underway.
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