Hamburg have to wait on Sorín
Wednesday, September 6, 2006
Article summary
Hamburger SV could be without their new Argentinian defender Juan Pablo Sorín when they open their UEFA Champions League campaign against Arsenal FC.
Article body
Hamburger SV could be without their new Argentina defender Juan Pablo Sorín when they open their UEFA Champions League campaign against Arsenal FC next week.
Calf injury
Sorín is struggling with a calf injury he sustained prior to his €3m move to Hamburg from Spanish club Villarreal CF on transfer-deadline day. The 30-year-old has not yet trained with his new team-mates as he undergoes treatment, and is almost certain to miss Saturday's German Cup match at Stuttgarter Kickers.
'Doesn't look good'
"It doesn't look too good," said Sorín of his prospects of being fit for Saturday and it can be assumed the same applies to his possible availability for next Wednesday's home game against Group G rivals Arsenal. The left-back is well acquainted with the London outfit, having faced them in last season's semi-final with Villarreal, and would doubtless relish the opportunity to avenge that loss.
Atouba worry
Sorín's absence would leave Hamburg coach Thomas Doll with a selection dilemma. With Khalid Boulahrouz departed for Chelsea FC, the obvious alternative at left-back is Thimothée Atouba but he is struggling with an adductor problem. Asked about these concerns, Doll said: "Only those players who are a 100 per cent fit will play."