Defensive Move from Vincenzo Italiano at Beşiktaş Ahead of Crystal Palace Match

Beşiktaş head coach Vincenzo Italiano is preparing to make changes to the starting lineup for the Europa League match against Crystal Palace in order to find a solution to the defensive problems experienced in recent matches. For the black-and-whites, Ümit Akdağ could surprisingly feature in the starting eleven for the center-back position.

Having conceded only 5 goals in the first 11 matches of the season, Beşiktaş has conceded 9 goals in the last 5 encounters. Most recently losing away to Trabzonspor in the Süper Lig, the black-and-white team has suffered all 3 of their league defeats this season on the road. Italiano's squad has also failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 5 fixtures.

Having conceded 3 goals from Amed, 1 from Kocaeli, and 2 from Trabzonspor in the Süper Lig, the black-and-whites also let in 1 goal from Marseille and 2 from Hoffenheim in the Europa League. Experiencing defensive troubles compared to the start of the season, the Eagles' head coach Vincenzo Italiano is considering giving Ümit Akdağ an opportunity at center-back against Crystal Palace to change this defensive picture.