Klaas Jan Huntelaar Injury: Updates on Schalke Star's Leg and Return
Schalke 04's bid to upset Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League last 16 will be buoyed by the return of Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, who is ready to contribute after overcoming an injury suffered during the recent 2-0 first-leg defeat.
Continue for updates.
Schalke Confirm Huntelaar Return
Tuesday, Feb. 24
Schalke provided confirmation of Huntelaar's reappearance ahead of the Gelsenkirchen side's Bundesliga tie with Borussia Dortmund. The club's official Twitter feed revealed the good news:
Huntelaar Injured During Real Madrid Defeat
Wednesday, Feb. 18
The prolific star striker limped off the field during the first half with the German team trailing against the holders 1-0. Schalke's Twitter account reported the incident:
Though Huntelaar was able to walk off virtually under his own power, he certainly didn't appear comfortable. The club's feed captured the image of the Dutchman's pained exit:
Sky Sports News in Germany reported thatย Huntelaar may have broken his fibula, per Archie Rhind-Tutt of LBC's Scores. However, ESPN FC reported that he only suffered a bruise after being taken to the hospital for tests. It now seems the latter is most likely.
Losing Huntelaar for a prolonged period would have been a major blow for manager Roberto Di Matteo's team. He has scored 10 times for Schalke in all competitions this season, per WhoScored.com.
Teenage forward Felix Platte was his replacement against Madrid. He is now destined to receive a bit-part role from the bench, despite UEFA reporter Paul Saffer highlighting Platte is capable of making an impact:
Despite Saffer's confidence, Schalke can now call upon Huntelaar's eye for goal and classy finishing once more.ย
