Riera rules out Koch, attacking options limited for Frankfurt’s trip to Bayern

The Hessen club are enduring a bit of an injury crisis and now will be without their captain for the trip to face the reigning Bundesliga champions.

In the build up to Saturday’s clash with Bayern Munich, Albert Riera has ruled captain Robin Koch out of Eintracht Frankfurt’s travelling squad. 

“Robin Koch is ill, he has a fever, and won’t be in the squad. Arthur [Theate] and Rasmus [Kristensen] have unfortunate injuries; we’re really unlucky.

“We have to accept the situation, even though we haven’t had much luck lately, especially since Ansgar [Knauff] is also out,” he explained. 

As his press conference rolled on, the Hessen club’s coach revealed both Arnaud Kalimuendo and Jonathan Burkardt are also struggling to be ready for the trip to Bavaria.

“Kali and Jonny are in a similar situation. Jonny is completely fit, but of course, he’s missing the competitive matches.

“Kali is ready when we need him, but not yet at 100 percent. We have to be mindful of their playing time,” Riera added. 

Despite the frustrating injuries, the Spaniard said he is “feeling positive” and that “the favourite doesn’t always win” in football. 

In Koch’s absence, Riera also revealed that full-back Nathaniel Brown will captain the side at the Allianz Arena from 15:30 CET tomorrow.