Lokonga injured again? HSV worry over key man | OneFootball

The worry was clearly visible on his face. When Sambi Lokonga lay in pain by the sideline shortly before halftime after a collision with Heidenheim's defender Patrick Mainka, HSV already suspected that there might be more to it.

The Belgian gritted his teeth until the halftime whistle, but it quickly became apparent that Lokonga was no longer moving as usual.

In the locker room, the midfielder received intensive treatment. Before the start of the second half, Lokonga tested early on the field to see if continuing to play was possible. The answer came promptly and was sobering. Coach Merlin Polzin had no choice but to take his key player off the field. Instead, Damion Downs entered the game, and the previous number nine, Ransford Königsdörffer, moved back into the attacking midfield.

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HSV Officials Fear the Worst

The effects of this change were unmistakable. Without Lokonga, HSV noticeably lost ball security and control in the center. Once again, it became clear that the summer newcomer is simply irreplaceable at the moment. Accordingly, Polzin is likely to ask the anxious question: How serious is the injury?

A diagnosis is still pending. According to the Hamburger Abendblatt, there is internal concern that the lateral ligament in the ankle might be affected. On the training-free Sunday, Lokonga is supposed to rest his ankle. If the pain persists on Monday, an MRI scan is planned to provide clarity about the injury and possible downtime.

Particularly bitter from HSV's perspective: Lokonga already struggled with calf problems in January, was out for nine days, and missed the match against Borussia Mönchengladbach completely. Even in the subsequent derby against FC St. Pauli, he only managed a few substitute minutes. Given his already extensive injury history, there is growing concern that HSV might have to do without one of their key players again in the important home game against Union Berlin.

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