In for Werder? Early HSV signs on Vuskovic and Lokonga | OneFootball

Just a few days before the highly anticipated northern derby against Werder Bremen, HSV’s injury situation continues to worsen.

Only a few days ago, however, head coach Merlin Polzin had struck an optimistic tone. “The boys will be ready for the derby. I’m fully convinced of that,” he said after the 0–4 defeat at VfB Stuttgart about the injured Luka Vuskovic and Sambi Lokonga.

But even at the start of derby week, there is still a major question mark hanging over Vuskovic in particular. “Luka is receiving very intensive treatment and is being closely examined. Of course, it will be tight,” Polzin was quoted as saying by the Hamburger Abendblatt. At the same time, he made it clear that no risks would be taken. “I can’t assess it yet at the moment,” said the 35-year-old.

Photo: IMAGO

Northern derby: HSV likely to have Lokonga and Capaldo available

Things look slightly better for Lokonga. The midfielder was back on the pitch and at least completed individual training. As a result, he should be an option for the match against Werder. “In all likelihood, he will be in the squad,” Polzin announced. Still, caution is advised. Given his injury history, he is more likely to be used as a substitute.

Nur die Raute – All the news about HSV

“Sambi helps us, regardless of whether he starts or comes on in the second half,” said the coach. HSV are therefore likely to begin with Nicolai Remberg, Albert Grønbaek and Fabio Vieira in central midfield.

There was, however, unequivocally positive news regarding another player: Nicolás Capaldo is ready to return to the starting lineup after recovering from injury and could come in for the recently underwhelming Warmed Omari as the right center-back in the back three. The situation is different for Jean-Luc Dompé, whose availability remains uncertain.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.