Germany have been dealt a huge blow ahead of their FIFA under-20 World Cup campaign. Tim Kleindienst will miss the tournament with a lateral ligament injury.
Kleindienst had recently earned himself a move to SC Freiburg, following 14 goals and several assists for Energie Cottbus last season.
The DFB announced the news on their website and explained the situation. On Thursday, the 19-year-old picked up the injury during training and will return home in the next few days for treatment.
"It is too bad that Tim has to leave, he was in a good mood and was ready," said coach Frank Wormuth. Pascal Köpke, of SpVgg Unterhaching, will take the place of his injured colleague. Wormuth added, "We hope that Pascal can replace him well."
Köpke, who is the son of Germany's goalkeeper coach Andreas, "I am thrilled, to be allowed to play at the World Cup. It will be a special highlight."
Quotes via kicker.