Van Wolfswinkel after tearing Knezevic's cruciate ligament: "I'm sorry"

It seems harmless. A small group from Basel, Ricky van Wolfswinkel, on the sidelines of Stefan Knezevic from Lucerne. But this one falls to the ground and writhes in pain. Tumult, pack formation. The FCB and FCL players are almost squeezing their throats. And while Knezevic is always treated in the square, it can be assumed that this action could have serious consequences.

Tuesday follows the sad certainty: the FCL plant tore the cruciate ligament. Knezevic has in the next few days under the knife, will probably fail for six months. Bitter. The 22-year-old has already evolved under Gerry Seoane in the second half of last season and now also under coach René Weiler this season under the orders of the powerful defensive leader. In October, he was even voted player of the month by Blick readers.

Between Van Wolfswinkel and Knezevic sinks due to the action but not bad blood. The FCB offensive pilot has already sent an SMS to the young FCL. "I'm really sorry that Stefan got hurt so badly in this action," said Van Wolfswinkel. "As I hoped, I did not want to hurt him in any way, I wanted to protect the ball away, just like he wanted to conquer it."

Van Wolfswinkel continued: "Unfortunately, this duel has resulted in a very bad retreat for Stefan, I wish him a speedy recovery and I hope to see him on the field as soon as possible." It will probably be the case next spring at the earliest.