Valverde may be forced to think outside the box amid Pique absence

Gerard Pique's trip to Espanyol on Sunday was not a wholly positive one despite heading in the late equaliser, as an injury picked up late on in the game is set to force Ernesto Valverde into a big compromise for Thursday's game at Valencia.

With just Yerry Mina and Samuel Umtiti the coach's fit centre-backs, he faces a dilemma of either starting a rookie in such a big match or drafting in a more experienced player who isn't a natural fit for the role.
Given that Umtiti is banned for the upcoming LaLiga clash against Getafe, Mina was all set for an easing into the Barcelona team once the Copa del Rey had been dealt with, but Gerard Moreno's late tackle on Pique has upset the Azulgrana apple cart.
Pique has attempted to train alone since picking up the knee ligament injury and the signs have not been good, leading to the medical department urging restraint in order to guarantee his fitness for the Champions League tie versus Chelsea.
Therefore, while Mina is the logical option, Valverde may yet opt for Sergio Busquets at centre-back with the midfielder having played there for Pep Guardiola.
That would leave Barcelona without their anchor man at Estadio Mestalla, with Lucas Digne or B-team captain David Costas also considered as alternatives.
Digne hasn't moved into the centre of defence in a competitive match for the club but the coaching staff believe he is capable, and thus he presents an option for Valverde despite himself suffering from a finger injury.