Concern at Poljud: Hajduk Defender Injured in Kaunas
Alec Van Hoorenbeeck left the pitch in the 49th minute of the 5:2 win against Žalgiris due to hamstring pain. More details on the injury are expected tomorrow.
Alec Van Hoorenbeeck left the pitch in the 49th minute of the 5:2 win against Žalgiris due to hamstring pain. More details on the injury are expected tomorrow.
Hajduk thrashed Žalgiris 5:2 in Kaunas last night in the first leg of the third qualifying round for the Conference League, securing a huge advantage ahead of the return leg at Poljud. However, the celebration of their first away European victory in nearly six years was marred by an injury to defender Alec Van Hoorenbeeck.
The Belgian defender, who arrived at Poljud this summer, left the game at the very start of the second half, specifically in the 49th minute. He was replaced by Ron Raci. Although the situation worried coach Gonzalo Garcia, initial reports offer reason for cautious optimism.
As Index.hr has learned, Van Hoorenbeeck felt pain in his hamstring, but the player himself believes there is no muscle tear. The true extent of the injury and the potential length of his absence will be known after detailed medical examinations scheduled for tomorrow.
The injury comes at an awkward time for the Split club, which is in an excellent position ahead of the return leg at home. This victory ended a long drought without an away European win, dating back to the 1:0 triumph at Renova in the second qualifying round for the Europa League.
The 27-year-old Belgian stands 187 centimeters tall and primarily plays as a center-back, although he can also cover left-back. He arrived at Poljud from Dutch side Twente, having spent last season on loan at Heracles. He is left-footed and is envisioned as a key part of Garcia's defensive line for the new season.