Rudy doubt for Germany with broken nose

Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-25 21:09:17|Editor: mym
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By Paul Giblin

MOSCOW, June 25 (Xinhua) -- Germany will have defender Mats Hummels available for their vital Group F game against South Korea on Wednesday, but are likely to be without midfielder Sebastian Rudy.

Hummels missed Saturday's dramatic 2-1 win over Sweden through injury, but was able to return to training on Monday.

The central defender is available at the right time as Jerome Boeteng will miss the key match against South Korea through suspension after being sent off with eight minutes remaining on Saturday.

Rudy broke his nose after accidentally being kicked in the face during a challenge and needed a minor operation on Sunday.

"Rudy had an operation for his broken nose and will undergo further tests, but we must be prepared for the fact that he is unlikely to play," German assistant coach Marcus Song informed the press on Monday.

Song explained there was a "possibility" Rudy could play wearing a protective mask, saying that if there was a chance the 28-year-old could do so "without risk to his health," it "could be considered."

Tony Kroos' dramatic 95th minute free kick on Saturday means the reigning world champions will qualify for the last 16 if they beat South Korea in Kazan by a greater margin that the Swedes (who have the same number of points and the same goal difference and goals scored) beat Mexico in their final game.

If Rudy is unable to play, Iikay Gurdogan will probably replace him in the German starting 11.

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