Morcillo and De la Fuente make UD Almería debuts
The two January signings clocked up their first minutes, while Nico Melamed, out injured for a month and a half, and Soko, after his African Cup of Nations duty, returned to action
Jon Morcillo and Miguel de la Fuente made their first official appearances for UD Almería against RC Deportivo La Coruña. The two January signings were thrown into action shortly after arriving at the Club, highlighting the immediate need for reinforcements.
Miguel de la Fuente, signed from CD Leganés, was introduced in the 69th minute, while winger Jon Morcillo, who arrived from Albacete BP, made his debut late on in the 83rd. Preparation time was minimal for both players: Morcillo had completed just one training session with the squad, while de la Fuente had taken part in two.
Their introductions came largely as a response to the flow of the game, with head coach Rubi looking for fresh attacking options in search of an equaliser. The match also marked the return of Soko, back in the squad after his involvement at the Africa Cup of Nations, and Nico Melamed, who reappeared after almost a-month-and-a-half out with a muscle injury.
While the head coach regained depth in attacking areas, UD Almería’s defensive options were reduced. Chirino, suspended for this fixture, added to the list of absentees, leaving Rubi short at the back despite the welcome returns further forward.