Nurmela in after Sforza setback

Missed cup final
The 33-year-old Swiss international midfield player has been suffering for several weeks with an injury that cost him a place in the German Cup final, which Kaiserslautern lost 3-1 against FC Bayern München.

Operation required
Sforza consulted the Swiss national team doctor, Roland Biedert, over the injury and was advised an operation was required. "It looks as if training during the summer break made things worse," he said. "I will talk to coach Eric Gerets about what to do now, but I want to have the surgery performed as soon as possible."

Sforza understudy
Kaiserslautern today signed a possible replacement for Sforza in Finnish international Mika Nurmela who has arrived on a free transfer from Dutch side SC Heerenveen. The 31-year-old midfield player has put pen to paper on a two-year contract.

Crossing ability
Kaiserslautern coach Eric Gerets, said: "I know him very well. He did well in the Dutch league with his excellent crosses from the wing." The club's owner, René C Jäggi, added: "Nurmela stands for very precise crosses, free-kicks and danger in front of the goal. And he scores goals himself."