Luka Jovic prepares for AEK's upcoming derby against Panathinaikos
AEK Athens forward Luka Jovic is returning to full training ahead of the critical Super League playoff match against Panathinaikos. The Serbian striker, who has scored 20 goals in all competitions this season, recently missed games against Rayo Vallecano and PAOK due to fitness management and suspension. Despite his absence, coach Marko Nikolic led the team to a 3-1 victory over PAOK, with goals from Aboubakary Koita, Orbelin Pineda, and an own goal by Tomasz Kedziora. Jovic has scored 15 league goals this season and is chasing the club record of 20 league goals set by Ismael Blanco in the 2007-08 season. He currently stands at 16 goals in total league play, matching Ezequiel Ponce's 2018-19 record. With four matches remaining in the playoffs, the coaching staff is carefully managing his workload to ensure his availability. Jovic is currently the team's top scorer and remains a focal point for Nikolic's tactical plans.