Urawa Reds – FW Escudero is playing in training matches. MF Umesaki has a hamstring problem. FW Popo is considered doubtful.

Urawa Reds (P10 W5 D2 L3 GD +10) have only won one of their last four, losing at home to Marinos last week, while being held by Jubilo Iwata last time out. They suffer from a lack of a real striker, although Marcio Richardes and Popo do their best – it may not be enough to prolong an attack at the top spot. Genki Haraguchi scored a beautiful striker’s goal against Jubilo and, if he is fighting fit again, clear of injury, he will be a big addition to the Reds’ arsenal. The flat three at the back seems settled now, with Yuki Abe taking one of the two defensive midfield spots as opposed to a back line role. A wise decision, I believe.

Albirex Niigata (P10 W2 D2 L6 GD -5) have struggled, as expected, this season. The forward additions they have to rely on are Shoki Hirai – on loan from Gamba – and Kisho Yano – back from Europe with his tail between his legs. Neither have set the team alight as yet. They do have two away wins to show for themselves this season – at Cerezo and Sanfrecce, but Reds know that if they are to keep in touch with the top three they must win this kind of game. Winning one in the last four is just not good enough so EXPECT a BIG WIN for Urawa Reds!

Over the last decade Reds have won this meeting 15 times, while Albirex have won just twice, with two draws. Those two wins for Niigata came in J1 in 2006 and the Nabisco Cup in 2005.