Vorbeck loss hits Hansa

FC Hansa Rostock striker Marco Vorbeck will be out of action for around five weeks after picking up a knee injury.

Ligament tear
The 22-year old forward - who has scored one goal in four league games this season - has suffered a slight tear to a knee ligament, but will not need surgery.

Pre-contract deal
Icelandic international Ólafur Örn Bjarnason has signed a pre-contract agreement to join Norwegay's SK Brann. The 28-year-old defender's contract with Grindavík expires at the start of next year and Bjarnason has agreed a three-year deal with Brann on the proviso that the club preserve their top-flight status.

'Take charge in defence'
With three games to go in the Tippeliga season, Brann lie in eighth place, but are just three points above the relegation zone. "We made an agreement that I will go to Brann for three years if the team stays in the top division," Bjarnason said. "I went over there with my wife and the club showed a clear interest in wanting me to go over there and take charge of the defence."

Rapaic on trial
Liverpool FC manager Gérard Houllier has confirmed that the club have offered a one-week trial to Croatian international midfield player Milan Rapaic. The 30-year-old, who has scored four goals in 33 appearances for his country, is a free agent after leaving Fenerbahçe SK.

'Close look'
Rapaic arrived at Liverpool's Melwood training ground today, having previously had a trial with Celtic FC. "We will have a close look at him," said Houllier. "He is a very experienced player and played for Croatia in the [UEFA] EURO 2004™ qualifiers."