Nihat Makes His Return For Villarreal

Nihat was one of the shining lights of his nations fantastic run to the semi-finals of Euro 2008, but he tore a thigh muscle during the tournament and has struggled to get back to fitness.

He has already declared himself as Villarreal's 'first winter signing', and Pellegrini will no doubt be delighted to have one of his key players available again.

Nihat made a last-minute appearance, replacing Giuseppe Rossi during Los Submarinos Amarillos hard-fought 2-1 victory ove Recreativo Huelva.

The former Real Sociedad frontman's return is all the more timely given that Joseba Llorente has been ruled out for six weeks with an ankle injury meaning Rossi was partnered with youngster Jozy Altidore for today's win.

Pellegrini also has injuries in a number of other positions too. Those also crocked include Robert Pires, Cani, Guille Franco and influential midfielder Marcos Senna.

Nihat's last outing was against Sporting Gijon almost two months ago and the man who manged nineteen goals in all comnpetitions last season as Villarreal finished second in the Primera Division, has managed just two halves of football, so he will feel like a new signing as the men from El Madrigal attempt to keep up with the form of Barcelona.


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