PSG cautious on Fabian Ruiz return as injuries bite ahead of Monaco clash

The Spanish midfielder has been sidelined for more than a month after picking up a knee problem, and PSG's coaching staff have stressed he won't be rushed back until fully fit.

Ruiz last featured on January 20, when PSG lost 2-1 to Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League. Since then he has been doing individual training but has yet to rejoin the main group on the training pitch - meaning his availability for the return fixture against Monaco is doubtful.

With the first leg in the French principality ending in a thrilling 3-2 win for PSG, the stakes are high in the return. However, PSG boss Luis Enrique has made it clear that players will only be considered for selection if they are ready to contribute at a high level. Ruiz's name remains listed as a question mark, alongside star winger Ousmane Dembele, who is also continuing his recovery from a minor muscle issue.

During his time on the sidelines, PSG have coped by leaning on midfield young talent such as Warren Zaire-Emery, who has delivered some eye-catching performances. That has helped soften the blow of missing one of the team's most creative midfielders.

This season Ruiz has appeared in around 24 matches across all competitions, contributing a couple of goals and a few assists - less than his output last term, but still valuable for a team with lofty ambitions.

PSG's medical team will assess Ruiz again in the days ahead. If he isn't ready for the Monaco tie at Parc des Princes, the earliest look for a return could come in Ligue 1 action next weekend.

Meanwhile, the club also confirmed that defenders Quentin Ndjantou and Senny Mayulu will miss out, further testing PSG's squad depth in a busy part of the season.

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