Sevilla minus Makukula

Sevilla are travelling to China for their pre-season tour without Ariza Makukula.

Sevilla are travelling to China for their pre-season tour without Ariza Makukula.

The giant striker misses games against Shanghai, Real Zaragoza and Villarreal due to a knee problem.

A special seven-day recuperation break has instead been set up for the Portuguese forward in Belgium.

Sevilla's physio Juan Rivas has explained that it is in the best interests of the Congo-born ace that he does not travel to the Far East.

"Makukula is progressing a lot and the best solution for that is not in China," he asserted.

"During this time, the player will work with Sevilla with a special plan."

He is expected to be fit in time for the new season and could start training with his team-mates in early August.