Lee Kang-in says ankle 'not serious' ahead of Atlético's Alavés trip

📰 Lee Kang-in has eased Atlético's worries by saying the ankle problem that forced him off against Uzbekistan is 'not serious'. 📌 Key points 🦶 Lee started against Uzbekistan but was replaced at half-time. 🙋 Robert Moreno said Lee himself asked to come off because of his ankle. 💬 Lee said it is 'not serious' and an old injury he has to manage. 🩺 Atlético's medical staff will check him on his return to Madrid. 📅 Atlético visit Alavés on 10 October and host Man United on 13 October. 📝 What happened 🇰🇷 South Korea beat Uzbekistan 2-0, but Lee, who started, did not come out for the second half. He felt something unusual in his ankle and asked to be substituted. 🗣️ Moreno explained: 'At the end of the first half he asked to come off himself. It was not in our plans.' He added that Lee is 'a player who deeply loves the team'. 💬 Lee said: 'It has been bothering me for a while, but it is not serious. It is an old injury and I need to manage it properly,' adding that he was grateful the coach took it into account. 🏃 According to Esto es Atleti, Lee is due to rejoin team training at Majadahonda on Thursday. The medical staff will monitor him this week before deciding whether he starts against Alavés or is rested ahead of the Manchester United game. 📊 By the numbers • Uzbekistan game: South Korea won 2-0, Lee played the first half • Atlético in La Liga: 16 points from seven games, 2nd • Next up: Alavés away on 10 October, Man United at home on 13 October 🔭 Why it matters After the break Atlético switch between La Liga and the Champions League every few days. It is good news that Lee's problem is not serious, but as a long-standing ankle issue, managing his minutes could become a factor. Atlético face Alavés at Mendizorroza on 10 October and Manchester United at the Metropolitano on 13 October.