STUTTGART, Germany – VfB Stuttgart’s squad is making adjustments ahead of their upcoming match due to injury concerns. Leonidas Stergiou, who has started the last four matches, is sidelined with a foot injury sustained during training. His absence will be felt in the game against FC St. Pauli on Saturday at 15:30.
Stergiou’s injury creates a vacancy at right-back, prompting coach Sebastian Hoeneß to explore options for his lineup. Josha Vagnoman, who has been recovering from mid-foot issues since mid-March, is now fit and could step into the starting role. “Basically, I wouldn’t rule out starting Josha, because he has a physical condition that couldn’t be better,” Hoeneß said. “He is definitely an option for us,” he added.
However, Vagnoman is not Stuttgart’s only alternative. Pascal Stenzel, another right-back option, has limited playing time recently, which raises questions about his match readiness. Additionally, Hoeneß can also consider adjusting the lineup by moving a center-back to the right side, with Ameen Al-Dakhil and Finn Jeltsch both capable of filling this position.
Jeltsch, who faced some calf problems earlier in the week, is reportedly fit for selection, adding more flexibility for the coaching staff. The injury woes come amid a challenging period for Stuttgart, as they suffered their sixth consecutive home defeat, losing 1-0 to 1. FC Heidenheim.
The defeat raised concerns among the players as they faced their fans in the Cannstatter Kurve. Despite the disappointment, the atmosphere shifted as players sought to engage the supporters, leading to chants of “Let’s go Stuttgart, fight and win!” echoing from the stands.
With Stuttgart navigating through this difficult phase, the team is keen to bounce back and deliver a strong performance against FC St. Pauli this weekend. Coach Hoeneß’s decisions on the lineup will play a crucial role in determining the team’s chances for success.
