Zürich U21 starlets sidelined
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Article summary
FC Zürich's UEFA Cup ambitions have taken a blow after Switzerland Under-21 duo Almen Abdi and Heinz Barmettler returned injured from international duty.
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FC Zürich's UEFA Cup ambitions have taken a blow after Switzerland Under-21 duo Almen Abdi and Heinz Barmettler returned from international duty carrying injuries.
Toll of injuries
The 20-year-old Barmettler came off worse after tearing ligaments in his left knee which will keep him out of action for six to eight weeks. The centre-back, who has nine Super League appearances to his name this season, will also be examined for meniscus damage. Midfielder Abdi, also 20, has an infection in both heels and will be sidelined for between ten and 14 days.
Light relief
Better news for the Swiss champions concerns their 19-year-old midfielder Remo Staubli, who may only be laid off for a couple of days after pulling a thigh muscle. At least two of those players, however, will be missing when Zürich begin their UEFA Cup group stage challenge away to AC Sparta Praha on 25 October. The club then face further Group E matches against Toulouse FC, FC Spartak Moskva and Bayer 04 Leverkusen.
