Kulig adds to Germany's lengthy injury list

Kim Kulig has become the fifth Germany player to be ruled out of UEFA Women's EURO 2013 because of injury or illness.

The 1. FFC Frankfurt midfielder has been experiencing persistent problems after an operation on the cruciate ligament in her right knee. Suspicions that the joint is not sturdy enough were confirmed after an MRI scan revealed damage to the lateral meniscus.

The 23-year-old, a scorer when Germany defeated England 6-2 in the continental final four years ago, is likely to require more surgery. Team doctor Ulrich Schmieden explained: "If Kim wants to continue her sporting career, this is the only option in order to stabilise her knee."

Kulig joins Viola Odebrecht, Verena Faisst, Alexandra Popp and Linda Bresonik in being sidelined for the tournament in Sweden, which runs from 10–28 July. Germany coach Silvia Neid said: "It's yet another setback for us, but, above all, we're gutted for Kim. We will have to have another rethink, but we will accept the situation we have and try and make the best of it."

Kulig said: "Obviously I'm hugely disappointed at the moment. It's not an easy situation for me, but there's no other way. I want to be pain free and resilient again and sort out my knee as soon as possible."