Ruben Baraja confirms imminent return for Valencia star amid sexual assault allegations

At the beginning of September, Valencia striker Rafa Mir was accused of sexual assault. He was charged, and jailed for two days, before eventually being released on bail. At the moment, the matter is still being investigated by the relevant authorities.

Mir also punished at home to Valencia, although his suspension is now over. Soon, he will be available for first team action, as confirmed by coach Ruben Baraja (via AS Diary).

“He's good. But when you have a situation like the one he had, to be about to return to the group and have to start again, it can affect you. He's doing well and we think that soon, two or three weeks, he will be able to do things with the group and he will be ready for the second part of the season.

Baraja also spoke about the imminent return of captain Jose Gaya, who could make his first appearance in five months when Valencia does Las Palmas on Monday.

“For us it is an important return – he is our captain, one of the best players. It was a long wait, because his injury required those times and trials. We hope that he will recover his level and can contribute things to us , because at this time of the season we need everyone to be good.

“He feels good. His work during the week was good. He has options (to start vs Las Palmas), like the others. Any player is in a position to start, and also Jose.