As the Ligue 1 season reaches its dramatic climax, every point is precious, especially for a team fighting for survival. This Friday night, FC Metz face a daunting trip to the Stade Vélodrome to take on Olympique de Marseille, and they'll be boosted by the return of a key figure in midfield.

Benjamin Stambouli is set to make his comeback after missing the club's previous seven matches. His experience and defensive grit will be a welcome addition for a Metz side that has been struggling, sitting rock bottom of the table and without a league win in 16 agonizing matches.

However, the midfield remains a mixed bag for Les Grenats. While Stambouli and Alpha Touré return, the squad will be without the suspended Believe Munongo and the injured Boubacar Traoré. Given the length of his absence, Stambouli's return is expected to be cautious, with reports suggesting he will begin the crucial match on the bench.

With survival on the line, manager László Bölöni is predicted to field a lineup looking to be resolute. The expected starting XI is: Pape Sy; Maxime Colin, Jordi Mboula, Sadibou Sané, Koffi Kouao; Jessy Deminguet, Jean-Philippe Gbamin; Giorgi Tsitaishvili, Gauthier Hein, Bouna Sarr; Habib Diallo.