VfB Stuttgart will have to cope without attacker Jamie Leweling in their crucial Europa League clash away to FC Porto after the winger was ruled out with muscle problems.
The German-Ghanaian attacker picked up the issue during the intense Sunday evening Bundesliga match against RB Leipzig and has not recovered in time to feature.
Head coach Sebastian Hoeneß had sounded optimistic earlier in the week that Leweling might still make the squad, but the final fitness test did not bring the all-clear. Given how tight the decision was, there is still hope that the 25-year-old could be back in the matchday squad on Sunday evening when Stuttgart host FC Augsburg in the league.
Leweling’s absence is a blow for Stuttgart’s attacking plans, as his pace, direct dribbling and flexibility across the front line have been important in recent months. Nevertheless, the club is taking a cautious approach, keen to avoid a setback that could rule him out for longer.
Stuttgart now head to Porto knowing they must find solutions without one of their key offensive weapons, while fans look ahead to a possible Leweling return at the weekend.
Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.
Read Full Story
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Google+
YouTube
LinkedIn
RSS