Flu Victims Robben, Kroos Sit out City Clash
Bayern Munich's Dutch star Arjen Robben and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos will both miss Wednesday's Champions League clash at Premier League leaders Manchester City with flu.
Robben has only recently returned after groin surgery in October and Bayern's director of sport, Christian Nerlinger, said he cannot play, despite the Dutchman having scored twice in Saturday's 4-1 win over Werder Bremen.
"I'd have liked to have seen him make the trip; the disappointment for both him and me is great," said Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes.
The loss of Kroos is almost a bigger concern in the defensive midfield zone, with Bastian Schweinsteiger still recovering from a broken collarbone sustained on November 3.
Forward Thomas Mueller, midfielder Danijel Pranjic, striker Mario Gomez and Belgian defender Daniel Van Buyten are all also showing flu-like symptoms, but it is hoped they will be able to be considered for selection.
"We need to see how they feel," said Heynckes.
Heynckes still has the Ukraine's Anatoliy Timoschuk, Austrian David Alaba and Brazilian Luiz Gustavo to call upon in the center of the pitch.
"We will do everything to bring the points home. We are at the top of the group and we want to win every game," said Bayern captain Philipp Lahm.
With 13 points, Bayern are guaranteed to finish first in Group A, while City, third with seven points, must win at their Etihad Stadium and hope bottom side Villarreal secure at least a draw at home to Napoli.
Roberto Mancini's team are five points clear in the Premier League after 12 wins from 14 matches, but have struggled in their first Champions League campaign and appear set to drop into the Europa League.
Source: Agence France Presse
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