Montpellier’s Joris Chotard set for period of absence

Reluctantly, Montpellier HSC were open to selling Joris Chotard (22) this summer. Like every player at La Paillade, he was available at a price, and whilst teams did come forward with concrete proposals, the midfielder, who shone with the France squad at the Olympics earlier this summer, he ultimately remained at his formative club.

That was both good and bad news for Montpellier. Sales were desperately needed at MHSC this summer and his sale would have allowed the club to recruit and add depth to the squad – something that is very much needed. Chotard remaining at the Mosson was, nonetheless, a boost for Montpellier. However, both have now suffered a blow.

The midfielder has been forced to withdraw from the France U21 camp through injury. The extent of the injury has now been revealed. Chotard is suffering from a torn calf and is expected to be out for several weeks, perhaps as much as four weeks, as per Mohamed Toubache-Ter. With Arnaud Nordin and Modibo Sagnan also out, MHSC are looking short of players, and given their predicament, it is a worrying omen.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle