Hugo Almeida news rocks Bremen

Werder Bremen expect to be without striker Hugo Almeida "for several weeks" after discovering that he had cracked a bone in his spine in the run up to tonight's big Group B game against FC Internazionale Milano.

Worst fears
Already resigned to making do in the absences of suspended midfielder Diego and injured defender Naldo, Bremen will now also be without the 24-year-old Hugo Almeida. "Our fears regarding Hugo Almeida have been confirmed," said coach Thomas Schaaf. "Examinations have revealed that he has partially fractured a vertebra. He will be out for several weeks at least."

More worries
Bremen need a win against qualified Inter to have a chance of finishing third in Group B and earning a place in the UEFA Cup Round of 32. However, their hopes of doing so have been further undermined by more late injury news. "Naldo will be missing with foot problems," added Schaaf. "Frank Baumann is also doubtful [with calf problems] ."