Naoki Kumata can immediately play against Seraing. — © Dick Demey
Genk
Only positive sounds at Jong Genk after the 7 out of 9. “The boys feel good,” says coach Jelle Coen. Japanese striker Naoki Kumata is available.
Jong Genk has risen to eleventh place, eight points ahead of Seraing, which is in a relegation place. On Sunday (1.30 pm) the Genkies can deliver a blow to the people of Liège and do a good thing in the battle for retention. “Everything is going well,” says trainer Jelle Coen. “We can indeed do a good thing if we win, but we don’t put extra pressure on the boys. We’re not going to push them. That does not work.”
Coen can count on a virtually fit core. Japanese newcomer Naoki Kumata is also eligible to play. “Seraing will not shy away from duels on the narrow field and will use the long ball,” says Coen. “We have to win the first matches and then take advantage of our opportunities with good football.” (jds)
De verwargete kern: Penders, Pieklak, Van Ingelgom, Arabaci, Martens, Caicedo, Kongolo, Al Mazyani, Manguelle, Onstein, Da Costa, Akpan, Van de Perre, Claes, Bangoura, Karetsas, Abid, Adedeji-Sternberg, Beniangba, John , Touré, Kumata, Mirisola, Nuozzi.