Marica injury keeps Stuttgart waiting

VfB Stuttgart are waiting to learn how severe Ciprian Marica's thigh injury is after the Romanian international was forced to fly back to Germany from the club's training camp in Portugal for treatment on his left thigh.

Ruptured muscle
The 23-year-old pulled up during a session in Portimao and was immediately attended to by medical staff. Marica has reportedly ruptured a muscle and could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines, although how long will only become clear after further tests. Marica could therefore be a doubt for the UEFA Cup Round of 32 tie against holders FC Zenit St. Petersburg next month. The former FC Shakhtar Donetsk forward has played five times in the competition this season, scoring twice, in addition to making 13 Bundesliga appearances.