Atanas Chernev, a young Bulgarian international defender, is expected to be benched by his Portuguese club after a string of poor performances, including two own goals in his recent national team debut matches.
The 23-year-old central defender for Estrela da Amadora was substituted in the first half of his team’s 4-0 defeat against Sporting.
Chernev’s individual form has suffered recently. He made his debut for Bulgaria’s senior national team, but went on to score two own goals in his first two appearances.
He is now anticipated to be left out of the starting lineup for Estrela da Amadora’s upcoming match against Arouca on Sunday, part of the 13th round of Portugal’s top football league.
Coach João Nuno removed Chernev during the match against Sporting.
Otávio, a 20-year-old Brazilian, is expected to step into Chernev’s place, having replaced him during the Sporting game.