Bayern Munich's Lewandowski expected to be available for Champions League
The prognosis surrounding Robert Lewandowski's broken face may not be so bad after all.
Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge is optimistic that the Polish international, who suffered a broken jaw and nose during Tuesday's German Cup loss to Borussia Dortmund, could feature in the team's semifinal clash in the Champions League against Barcelona on Wednesday.
"I am pretty convinced of it," Rummenigge told B5 Radio when asked about Lewandowski's availability. "He will have an individual mask made and that should ensure he will play against Barcelona."
Lewandowski sustained the injuries during a nasty collision with the Dortmund 'keeper. As the Bayern player challenged for the ball in the air, he was blindsided by Mitchell Langerak and took a heavy blow to the face that forced him out of the match.
Langerak has since apologised for the incident, adding that he hopes for Lewandowski's speedy recovery.
"Robert and I are friends and of course I am sorry for what happened," Langerak told reporters. "I hope he can play as soon as possible.
"Anyone who knows me knows it wasn't intentional and that I wanted to clear the ball."
Lewandowski's possible inclusion Wednesday will be a huge boost for a Bayern side ravaged by injuries. Thomas Muller would be his likely replacement up front if the medical staff rules against a return.
- With translation from Goal