Werder Bremen are set to have Raphael Wolf and Sebastian Prödl back in training this week. Unfortunately for the northerners, star-striker Franco di Santo could be out for over a month.
Austrian defender Sebastian Prödl was a massive miss for Werder in their derby defeat to Hamburger SV, on Sunday. The centre-half was out with hip problems and has given his side a huge boost ahead of their trip to Paderborn next weekend, by declaring he is almost ready to go. "It's getting better," said Prödl, who has been a crucial member of the Bremen back-line this term.
There was also good news in regard to goalkeeper Raphael Wolf. The shot-stopper was injured in a clash with Artjoms Rudnves, when HSV scored the opening goal. It was feared he may have done serious damage to his thigh, but coach Wolf himself delivered a positive outlook, "On Wednesday or Thursday I will train with the team again."
"The medical department speaks of one to six weeks off," said Werder coach Viktor Skripnik. This was the last thing the Bremen faithful wanted to hear after the derby loss. Hot-shot Franco di Santo has led the Bremen line magnificently this term and his lateral knee ligament sprain could possibly rule him out until after Christmas.