Op to rule Metzelder out for three months

DORTMUND, Germany, October 20 (AFP) - Borussia Dortmund defender Christoph Metzelder has vowed not to rush his comeback as he prepares to go under the surgeon's blade once again in a bid to cure a persistent Achilles tendon problem.

The German international, 22, has already been sidelined for seven months following an Achilles operation on March 30 but now needs another op which is set to rule him out for at least another three months.

BizVantage – All the Net, all the time, just for you.
Try the free, no-hassle 6 month trial!

"The situation is serious," Metzelder told German magazine Kicker. "That is why I want to see the best specialist."

The 2002 World Cup star admits he tried to comeback too quickly last time around and will learn from the lesson.

"I have not listened to what my body has been telling me," confessed Metzelder. "This time my body alone will decide when I return."

"I will be very cautious and not make the mistake of putting myself under pressure."

Metzelder's extended spell on the sidelines is a major blow for Dortmund and Germany coach Rudi Voller will also be crossing his fingers that his star defender is ready for the 2004 European championships in June 2004.

phs/rw03

Fbl-GER-Metzelder