Ilzer provides update on Conté after midweek injury setback

Bambasé Conté came on as a substitute but was forced off again as TSG Hoffenheim were eliminated from the DFB-Pokal by Holstein Kiel on penalties on Wednesday.

Having struggled with adductor problems ahead of the game, Conté started on the bench and was brought on after 64 minutes. However, he had to be substituted again shortly after the start of extra time.

“It was an issue against Lyon and in the games before that as well,” Hoffenheim coach Christian Ilzer explained at a press conference on Friday, referring to last week's 3-0 win over Olympique Lyon, during which the attacking midfielder was forced off after 65 minutes.

A lengthy spell on the sidelines doesn't appear to be on the cards, but Hoffenheim will be determined to manage his workload to avoid aggravating the problem. Conté therefore looks unlikely to feature against Werder Bremen this weekend.

“It's an issue that requires a lot of caution to ensure it doesn't develop into a more serious injury,” Ilzer said.

Another concern for Hoffenheim is Vladimir Coufal, who has been struggling with thigh pain for some time. The 34-year-old was initially rested in Kiel but had to come on after his replacement, Valentin Gendrey, suffered a broken fibula early in the match.

With Coufal's involvement also in serious doubt, 18-year-old prospect Natnael Abraha could make his Bundesliga debut at right-back against Werder Bremen.