Long lay-off for Koller
Friday, October 7, 2005
Article summary
Czech Republic and BV Borussia Dortmund striker Jan Koller will be sidelined for the rest of the season after undergoing knee surgery.
Article body
Specialist performs
Koller tore the rear cruciate ligament in his left knee during the 1-1 draw at 1. FSV Mainz 05 on 24 September, and was operated on by knee specialist Michael Strobel today. Team doctor Markus Braun said: "Everything went exactly as planned and the operation was successful."
'Important player'
It is estimated the 32-year-old will be sidelined for eight months which effectively ends any hope of him appearing at the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc said: "Jan Koller is a very important player and simply cannot be replaced."