Hertha BSC forward Sami Allagui is out for the foreseeable future after undergoing surgery on an injury to his left knee.
The capital club haven't put a timescale on when the Tunisian will return after an initial six week conservative treatment proved unsuccessful, as confirmed by club doctor Uli Schleicher. He went into further detail about the problem, citing that the surgery was to repair damaged cartilage after knee and cruciate ligament strains caused it to worsen.
Preetz and Allagui hae their say
“This is very bitter for Sami and for Hertha,” said Michael Preetz. The sporting director told the club’s website, that they "need to be patient" until he can return to the pitch again. He added, "We wish him a good recovery.”
Allagui himself admitted he had "imagined the start of the season very differently" and that he was "really fit and ready to go with Hertha". He is targeting a return this season and added that, "Anyone who knows me knows that I am a fighter, who will do anything to ensure that th recovery is a success."
A blow to the striking options
The 29-year-old will be keen to make a big impression when he does return, as his deal in Berlin runs out this season. Allagui has played over 200 games in Germany and a stay in the German top flight would seem like the most logical move if he does not have his contract renewed at Hertha. More than 60 goals and 30 assists is a fine return for the forward and he'll hope to show just that when fit again.
His injury now leaves Pal Dardai with just Vedad Ibiseivc and Salomon Kalou as the only fit centre forwards. The Hungarian boss has already tried out Genki Haraguchi as a striker but it did not yield much success, meaning he will be reliant on the two main goal-getters staying fit for the Hinrunde.