Neymar ready for hostile PSG return against Strasbourg
The Brazilian's failed move to Barcelona in the summer will not be forgotten anytime soon by the Paris ultras, and Saturday is a big test of the strained relationship.
Neymar returned to PSG training on Thursday morning following the international break and is expected to be available for selection for the visit to Paris of Strasbourg. Seeing the Brazilian turn out for the Ligue 1 champions in this matchday 5 seemed unthinkable just a few weeks ago, but after a frustratingly failed move to Barcelona, he now has a job on his hands to turn around local fans.
Neymar ready for PSG, but the fans...
The forward can expect a rather hostile environment when he steps out onto the Parc des Princes turf, despite ultras being pleaded with to support him. Those hardcore supporters made it clear several weeks ago that they did not want to see the Brazilian in their beloved team's shirt again but, as things transpired, they, and the player, are going to have to deal with it. Whether that is conciliatory remains to be seen, and may depend a lot on what Neymar offers them on the pitch.
Knowing that he will be unavailable for the team's Champions League bow against Real Madrid due to suspension, this weekend provides a chance for Neymar to prove his value to the team. Football fans can often get over feelings of rejection or traitory with an impressive performance, although it will have to be particularly special to fade out the knowledge that he did everything he could to get out of the French capital in the summer. Don't expect a goal celebration to include a kiss of the badge.