Hannover's Andreasen out for several months

Hannover 96 midfielder Leon Andreasen has been ruled out for "several months" after MRI scans confirmed that he had torn cruciate ligaments in his right knee during Wednesday's 4-1 Bundesliga win against 1. FC Nürnberg.

The Danish international, 29, has been hampered by a groin injury in recent years and has now received another setback, with his coach Mirko Slomka saying: "This diagnosis is really bad for Leon, who has had long-term injury problems. I wish him all the best. It is also a blow for us as a team, because now we have to replace a really strong player."

Andreasen added: "I guessed yesterday evening that there was a real problem. The pain was very bad. The diagnosis this morning was no surprise. In the coming days, we have to make a plan as to what happens next, as I need an operation. Of course, that is really tough, but I am convinced that I can come back a second time."

Hannover kicked off their UEFA Europa League Group L campaign with a 2-2 draw at FC Twente. They host Levante UD on matchday two.