Frei defiant despite groin surgery

Difficult prognosis
"I hope to be back by the end of the season," he said. "The doctors could tell you it will be 12 or two weeks, but it doesn't work like that. We will start to have a better idea after the operation and rehabilitation. One thing is certain: my desire to return as quickly as possible."

Recent struggles
The 26-year-old was Ligue 1's top scorer last season with 20 goals, but has hit the target just five times in the present league campaign, and twice in the UEFA Cup as Rennes bowed out at the group stage. He scored seven goals in Switzerland's successful World Cup qualifying bid.