German Captain Andrae will miss the action at 2011 FIVB World League
Captain of German Men’s National Volleyball Team, Bjorn Andrae has been dropped off the team-roster.
The 30-year old Andrae suffered from acute problems in his knees on Tuesday, May 17, 2012 which forced him to withdraw from the team. This is critical time for German Team as they are scheduled to take part in the 2011 FIVB World League.
The 2011 FIVB World League is just around the corner as the tournament will be kicked off on May 27. Germany is one of the 16 teams, which will participate in the FIVB World League competition.
Germany has qualified for the premier men’s tournament after eight years. They last appeared at the podium of FIVB World League in 2003, when they settled for 11th slot in the ranking. Team had big plans to improve their ranking this year but
the loss of some key players makes it quite suspicious for them.
He is the third player, who has been sidelined due to the injury in recent times. Before him, Georg Grozer and Lukas Bauer are also staying out of the court on account of injuries. Andrae plays the outside hitter (OH) position and he has been a great support
for his team.
The head coach of German Team, Raul Lozano is having a tough time to deal with the situation. The absence of a key player like Andrae is a big blow for the team. However, Lozano has faith that he would fill the gap with proper replacement.
He said, “In the past I have normally integrated a couple of players, who have not been on the team before. That is a progressive change. The best of them will be in the team for the Olympic Games.”
Meanwhile, Andrae regretted that he won’t be able to support his team at this crucial time.
He stated, “It is an inflammation of the patellar tendon in both knees, which is in a chronic area and is quite large. It is a shame because the team is on the right track. This year, the World League is very interesting – and it could have been possible
for me.”
Germany has been placed in the Pool B of 2011 FIVB World League. The German Team will be joined by last year’s runner-up team, Russia, Bulgaria and Japan. They will open the tournament by taking on Bulgaria.
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