Rayo Vallecano manager, Inigo Perez has lavished praise on midfielder Chrisantus Uche ahead of their La Liga clash with Getafe.
Uche, one of Getafe’s standout performers this season, is set to miss the fixture after receiving a red card against Espanyol.
The 21-year-old was initially shown a yellow for a stamp on an opponent’s shin, but following a VAR review, the decision was upgraded to a red card his second sending-off this season.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Perez acknowledged the significance of Uche’s absence and admitted it would influence Rayo’s tactical setup.
“Well, the influence of a player’s absence always has to be taken into account, even more so in a player like Uche, who we’ve seen throughout the season at Getafe, his influence can be,” Perez said.
“It’s palpable, it’s visible, and anyone who watches Getafe realizes how important he is to their coach and their team.”
While Perez expects Getafe to compensate for the loss with another quality player, he believes Uche’s unique qualities are hard to replicate.
“So, it’s an absence that they’ll surely make up for with another top-level player because that’s what their squad says. It affects us in a way, because those characteristics, that trait, are irreplaceable,” he added.
With eight goal contributions across his appearances this season, he has become one of Getafe’s most trusted midfielders, earning respect across the league for his energy, tactical intelligence, and commitment.
There is also growing anticipation around a potential Super Eagles call-up for the midfielder.
With his performances catching the eye both domestically and abroad, a national team invitation could be just around the corner.
Though suspended, Uche’s presence still looms large, proof of how vital he has become to Getafe’s engine room and a nod to his increasing value in Spanish football.
