Neuer boost for Bayern

Bayern Munich expect Manuel Neuer to recover from a knee complaint in time to face Hoffenheim on Saturday.

The 28-year-old did not feature in Germany’s 1-0 friendly victory over Spain on Tuesday due to discomfort in his knee.

However, Bayern’s first-choice goalkeeper safely came through a training session on Wednesday and should play between the posts when the Bundesliga resumes after the international break.

“It [the knee injury] was only a short-term problem,” said Bayern’s sporting director Matthias Sammer.

Neuer’s availability will be a welcome relief for Bayern coach Pep Guardiola, who has had problems with his goalkeeping options this season.

Pepe Reina, signed to provide competition for Neuer in the close-season, has been unavailable since October due to a calf injury, while third-choice Tom Starke has been sidelined with an ankle injury.