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15.03.2018Bayer 04

Lars Bender doubtful for derby

Excitement mounts ahead of derby. Bayer 04 and FC Köln meet for the 62nd time in the league on Sunday (18 March, 15.30 CET). With three days to go before the clash with the neighbours, head coach Heiko Herrlich had to manage without three players on Thursday.
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While Vladlen Yurchenko and Charles Aránguiz were rested and completed individual sessions in the first team facilities, there is a question mark over the appearance of Lars Bender at the weekend. The skipper complained of muscular problems in his groin on Tuesday.

"We have to see day by day if Lars will be fit in time," said head coach Heiko Herrlich. Lars Bender has made 17 appearances so far this season, scoring twice and providing five assists along the way.

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