VINCENT KOMPANY’S injury woes deepened today as Konrad Laimer was dramatically ruled out of Bayern Munich’s crunch Bundesliga clash with Eintracht Frankfurt.
The Austrian battler, who’d only just fought his way back from a calf nightmare, has broken down again with what German reports are calling a torn muscle. It means the 28 year old will be watching from the stands this afternoon rather than patrolling the right flank.
According to German outlet Tz, Laimer’s calf has betrayed him once more . The timing’s a stinker, he’d only recently returned to full training after being sidelined since mid January with what was initially described as a muscle fiber tear .
Bayern chiefs were crossing their fingers after Laimer missed yesterday’s final training session at Säbener Straße. No such luck. The Austrian international, who’s bagged two goals and seven assists this term, has been told to rest up with no clear return date in sight .
It’s another headache for Kompany, who’s already without skipper Manuel Neuer. The Germany No.1 is also crocked with a calf issue, meaning young Jonas Urbig gets the nod between the sticks .
On the bright side, Josip Stanišić looks set to step in at right back. The Croatian, who’s been nursing his own injury problems this season, is fit and ready to go . With Sacha Boey packed off to Galatasaray on loan in January, options at the back are looking thinner than a pretzel stick.
Sporting director Max Eberl was only singing Laimer’s praises on Friday, hailing him as the “perfect example” of the modern, flexible footballer . Now he’s just hoping the Austrian’s latest setback isn’t a long one.
Bayern need all hands on deck as they look to maintain their title charge, with second placed Dortmund breathing down their necks. Laimer’s energy and versatility will be badly missed, but for now, it’s Stanišić’s time to shine.
