Kortrijk head coach Bernd Storck has announced that Algerian forward Billal Messaoudi will be out for around three to four weeks with a thigh injury. The former JS Saoura attacker has played 27 games in all competitions for Kortrijk, scoring three goals and providing one assist. He almost scored a great solo goal against Anderlecht at the weekend, having taken the ball from deep in his own half all the way into the opposition box. His shot was saved, with fellow Algerian Abdelkahar Kadri putting away the rebound.
However, while Messaoudi is out for the big derby against Zulte Waregem, the side have recovered Felipe Avenatti from suspension. The 29-year-old Uruguayan striker is the sides second top scorer with seven goals in all competitions. Avenatti joined in the summer from Standard Liege on a free, having spent the previous seasons on loan at Union St Gilloise and Beerschot.
Zulte Waregem have a number of injury and suspension concerns of their own. Ruud Vormer remains out with a long term injury, while Nicolas Rommens and Christian Brüls are both suspended for the clash on Friday night. Kortrijk go into the game four points above their rivals who occupy the final relegation spot.
