Valencia head coach, Carlos Corberán has dismissed suggestions that restrictions exist on the use of Nigerian striker Umar Sadiq, who is currently on loan at the club from Real Sociedad.
Sadiq, who has made a significant impact since arriving in January, was left out of the starting XI in Valencia’s 1-1 draw away at Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The decision raised eyebrows, especially considering the 28-year-old’s growing influence in recent matches. However, Corberán insisted that the striker’s usage has never been limited by the club or his parent side.
“At no point has this club imposed any restrictions on any player,” Corberán clarified. “In fact, in the Real Sociedad match, it was an injury that prevented the player from playing.”
Valencia fell behind just before half-time due to an own goal by César Tárrega.
Seeking a response, Corberán turned to Sadiq in the 66th minute, replacing André Almeida.
The tactical shift paid off quickly, with the Nigerian forward scoring a well-taken equalizer in the 75th minute, his fifth goal in just 12 La Liga appearances for Los Che.
Despite not starting regularly, Sadiq has proven his worth as a reliable finisher and impact player.
His goals have directly earned points for Valencia in several tight contests, including this recent draw, which further eases their relegation worries.
The result in Vallecas was also a rare positive for Valencia on the road, as they had only managed one win in their previous 15 away league matches.
With seven games left in the season, Valencia sit comfortably eight points above the relegation zone.
If they maintain their current form, a top-half finish is not out of reach an outcome that seemed unlikely earlier in the campaign.
