It was a shocking moment for 30,000 fans at the Gotlieb-Daimler-Stadium when Martin Stranzl clased at full pace with Werder Bremen keeper Andreas Reinke. The 37 year old keeper had to be treated for several minutes before being carried off the pitch. Reinke was taken to the Katharinen-Hospital in Stuttgart where a severe concussion and several fractured areas of his skull.
Stranzl travels directly to hospital
VfB Stuttgart striker Martin Stranzl, who apologised to both Werder manager Klaus Allofs and Thomas Schaaf straight after the game, was shocked by the diagnosis. The Austrian travelled to the hospital after the game to check on the condition of the keeper and make a personal apology which proved impossible as Reinke was prepared for surgery immediately on his arrival at the hospital. The striker had more luck on Thursday morning when he got to speak to the keeper personally. "I'm eternally sorry for the situation", remarked Stranzl.
On Thursday morning, doctors at the Stuttgart hospital set to work on re-setting the broken bones in Reinkes face but were happy to announce that there were no further injuries.
Reinke will stay in Stuttgart for three days after the operation before returning to the Weser. Werder doctor Dr. Götz Dimanski: "He's doing well under the circumstances but did spend the night on heavy painkillers. He is in good hands at the Katherinen Hospital and all points towards a successful operation." The news lifted spirits at Werder Bremen. Thomas Schaaf commented: "We are all relieved and hope to have Andi back with us in three or four weeks.