World Cup at risk for Rolfes after new knee injury

(GSM) – Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Simon Rolfes may miss the rest of the season and the World Cup, after suffering a new knee injury during physical tests this week.

The 27-year-old had just played two games after recovering from knee injuries, and now faces another physical and emotional set-back.

In a first reaction, Germany coach Joachim Löw said to feel bad for the player. “Simon always plays well for the national team. We will have to wait and see how long he will be sidelined exactly. First of all, I feel very bad for him.”

“We cannot give up on him just yet,” said Germany team manager Oliver Bierhoff. “We have to hope that he will be fit soon.”

Rolfes has earned 21 caps so far and was part of the German team at Euro 2008, where the three-times World Champions finished in second place.