LEROY SANE miraculously escaped picking up a serious injury that could have de-railed his season during Germany’s 1-1 draw against Serbia.
The Manchester City winger hobbled off the pitch after being substituted following the X-rated challenge from Milan Pavkov in the 92nd minute.
Pavkov was immediately shown the red card by the referee after his horrendous lunge on Sane‘s ankle.
The Citizens ace was then lucky to avoid a caution after he appeared to lash out at the striker with his right foot as he writhed around in agony on the ground.
Thankfully for City fans, the 23-year-old gingerly got back to his feet, but he was unable to complete the match as he was replaced by Nico Schulz.
Club doctors tended to Sane on the bench as he received treatment on his ankle, with Germany boss Joachim Low revealing the ex-Schalke forward’s injury is “not too serious”.
Speaking of the challenge, he said: “It was a vicious foul. Sane was lucky and got away with not getting hurt but such fouls can break bones.”
Pavkov had no complaints after being given his marching orders – well aware his tackle could have ended Sane’s season.
It remains to be seen whether the wide man will be involved in the 2014 World Cup winners’ Euro 2020 qualifier against Holland on Sunday.
Pep Guardiola will be desperate for the player to miss out on the match as City look to keep up the pressure on Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Sane has been an influential figure at the Etihad this season – chipping in with 14 goals and 17 assists in 38 games in all competitions.
City went into the international break two points behind the Reds, but Guardiola’s side have a game in hand over Jurgen Klopp’s men.
Reuters
AP:Associated Press
