Bayer Leverkusen striker Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez may not be fit in time for his team's first Champions League group match against CSKA Moscow on Sept. 14 due to his hand injury, his coach Roger Schmidt has said.
The Mexico international broke his hand after he fell down the stairs in his home last week, but at the weekend said he was confident he can be back on the field in approximately two weeks, just in time for Leverkusen's Bundesliga match against Hamburg.
However, Leverkusen coach Roger Schmidt told kicker on Tuesday said that the 28-year-old's return could be delayed.
"We all hope that he can return as soon as possible," Schmidt said, but added that due to the complicated surgery it might take a bit longer.
The Leverkusen coach said: "He will not be sidelined for six weeks, but I can't say it's safe that he'll be back for Hamburg or our [UCL] match in Moscow."
Although Schmidt still hopes the former Manchester United striker can make it in time for the re-start of Bundesliga after the international break, he added: "It might take a week longer."
Gracias!!! ���� #blessed #feyconfianza
Thank you!!! ���� #blessed #faithandtrust pic.twitter.com/koHEcmVpB0
- Chicharito Hernandez (@CH14_) August 26, 2016
The Mexico international last season helped Leverkusen secure their berth in Champions League with 17 goals in 28 league appearances, and his coach believes Hernandez is one of the most important players at the club.
Schmidt said: "It's like Bayern Munich having to do without Robert Lewandowski or Dortmund without Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang."