Neuer injury setback for Schalke

Friendly blow
The 22-year-old broke a fifth metatarsal bone during a pre-season friendly against SpVgg Erkenschwick on Tuesday and is set to miss the start of the Bundesliga season next month as well as Schalke's opening European encounter on 12/13 and 26/27 August. The German Under-21 international should be available if they reach the group stage, however, with Schalke team doctor Bernd Brexendorf explaining: "If the healing process goes well, Neuer will be able to play again at the beginning of September." New Schalke coach Fred Rutten, who also saw midfielder Peter Løvenkrands leave the pitch with an ankle problem, said: "The injury to Manuel is really bitter for us." Rutten's team will enter the third qualifying round draw on 1 August.