Bayern Munich have been handed a boost with the news star forward Franck Ribery will not need an operation.
But Frenchman won't be fit for WC play-off clash with Ireland
Bayern Munich have been handed a boost with the news star forward Franck Ribery will not need an operation to cure a recurring knee problem.
The Bundesliga club's coach Louis van Gaal confirmed on Friday that reports of surgery were premature.
It had been feared earlier this week that the France international may have to go under the knife, causing an absence of up to four months.
But instead, more conservative methods will be employed in a bid to get the 26-year-old back on the field before Christmas.
"Ribery will not have an operation," confirmed Van Gaal.
"That is a good decision. I hope it (the recovery) goes quicker than many people think."
France blow
Nevertheless, Ribery has been ruled out of Bayern's intense programme of matches in November as well as France's World Cup qualifying play-off double header against Ireland on 14th November and 18th.
Van Gaal had better news with Arjen Robben training hard for a comeback.
The Dutchman had an operation on his knee three weeks ago and was close to making a quicker than expected return in the 2-1 win over Freiburg last weekend.
Seven days later, Van Gaal believes he could be ready.
Robben news
"I believe that he is fit, but I thought that a week ago too," he told the club's official website.
Van Gaal added that a decision over Robben's inclusion "is up to him", but that he would not start the game, even if he is given the green light.
He would instead take his place on the bench, where Martin Demichelis is also expected to sit 10 weeks after an operation on his ankle.
His return comes as a boost after Daniel van Buyten picked up a red card against Bordeaux in the Champions League in midweek, meaning he will miss the return fixture against the French side on 3rd November.
