As Galatasaray prepare for their upcoming fixture against Gençlerbirliği, manager Okan Buruk finds himself facing a crucial selection decision involving star striker Victor Osimhen, according to Turkish sports daily Fanatik.

The Nigeria international watched Galatasaray's 1-1 draw against Kocaelispor from the bench due to fitness concerns.

Osimhen fractured his forearm during the first half of Galatasaray's loss to Liverpool in the Champions League last month, an injury that required surgery and has ruled him out of the reigning champions' last three top-flight matches.

However, there is light at the end of the tunnel as the prolific forward took part in team training on Wednesday.

Osimhen has been instrumental to Galatasaray's attacking output this season, with his presence significantly influencing both performance levels and overall win percentage.

Buruk is weighing up whether to include him in the starting line-up against Gençlerbirliği, with a plan to secure an early goal before substituting him.

Alternatively, the coach could name Osimhen on the bench and introduce him in the second half depending on how the match unfolds, with no final decision made at this stage.

Galatasaray are prioritizing his fitness for the highly anticipated derby against Fenerbahçe, a match widely regarded as a potential title decider.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel