Moffi’s knee problem threatens Hamburg return against Hoffenheim

Nigeria forward Terem Moffi is facing a fresh injury concern at Hamburger SV after a knee problem disrupted his preparations for the club’s Bundesliga return against TSG Hoffenheim. Moffi has suspended normal training because of the injury, putting his availability for the October 10 fixture in doubt. He had been expected to use the international break to improve his fitness after missing part of Hamburg’s pre-season preparations.

The striker returned to the training pitch on Tuesday but was limited to light running. He was not ready to resume full sessions with his teammates, and Hamburg coach Merlin Polzin said the club would take a cautious approach. “We need to get to know his knee a little better through our work together,” Polzin told Kicker.

“The knee reacted a bit more than I initially thought. Now we have to wait and see what happens this week.” A final decision on Moffi’s involvement against Hoffenheim had not been made in the supplied report. His participation could depend on how the knee responds as the week progresses.

Moffi joined Hamburg permanently from French club Nice earlier this year and was given the number nine shirt. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Portuguese club Porto, where he made 15 appearances in all competitions. The 27-year-old has made 23 appearances for Nigeria’s Super Eagles and scored six goals.

Before leaving Nice, he recorded 24 goals in 72 appearances for the French club. The latest setback has interrupted the fitness-building period Hamburg had planned for Moffi during the international break. The club is continuing to monitor his condition before deciding whether he can return to competitive action.