Bochum midfielder to miss Karlsruhe clash and a chunk of pre-season

VfL Bochum have confirmed via a club statement that Mats Pannewig will be absent for their final game of the season against SC Karlsruhe this Sunday. 

Only twelve minutes had elapsed when facing Hannover 96 last Saturday when Pannewig went down after a challenge and had to leave the field after several minutes of treatment. 

Medical examinations conducted on Monday, 11 May, have now revealed that the 21-year-old has suffered a shin injury, meaning he will still be out of action for an extended period.

In consultation with VfL's medical department, the injury will be treated conservatively, meaning several weeks of rest will be followed by a gradual increase in activity.

While surgery is thankfully not required, the midfielder will also the first few weeks of the new season, which begins towards the end of June with the resumption of training.

“I am incredibly sorry for Mats’ unfortunate injury, both for the team and especially for him personally. His development, particularly in recent months, has been really good. 

"Nevertheless, I am absolutely convinced that he will give it his all and come back even stronger – and he will receive the full support of VfL Bochum,” said director of football, Simon Zoller.