Show’s over for Senderos
Switzerland’s hopes of reaching the quarter finals for the first time in 52 years have been dealt a blow with central defender Philippe Senderos being ruled out for the rest of the World Cup after dislocating his shoulder during Friday’s win over South Korea.
The Arsenal player had already received a cut to his nose in scoring his side’s first goal, but things got much worse when he fell awkwardly in the second half and damaged his shoulder.
Swiss team doctor Rudolf Roeder said that the fall had caused ligament damage, although he was hopeful it would mend without the need for surgery.
“There is a 50 percent chance he will require an operation but the most important thing is rest for now,” said Roeder.
The 21 year old had been at the heart of the Swiss defence which is yet to concede a goal in the tournament, but coach Kobi Kuhn had faith in his side’s depth.
“One of our strengths is that we can replace almost everybody in the team without losing too much strength,” the former Swiss Under 21’s coach said.
Fellow Arsenal defender Johan Djourou is Senderos’ likely replacement.
Switzerland play Ukraine in their second round match in Cologne on Monday.