GERMANY star Marco Reus has reportedly been ruled out of the World Cup with an ankle injury.
The issue has limited him to just 68 minutes of action since the beginning of October and he missed Borussia Dortmund’s last four Champions League games.
He was initially sidelined with a ruptured ankle ligament though he did return to make two substitute appearances for Dortmund.
But recurring inflammation on his ankle means the attacker is not fit enough to go to the World Cup, according to Sky Sports Germany.
It is a big blow for manager Hansi Flick who is also without former Chelsea striker Timo Werner after he was ruled out with an ankle injury.
With that pair absent Flick has reportedly turned to Dortmund wonderkid Youssoufa Moukoko, with the 17-year-old set to make the Germany squad for the first time.
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Reus also missed out on the 2014 World Cup with an ankle injury, which Germany won, though he did play a part in Russia 2018.
A groin issue prevented him from playing at Euro 2016 while fatigue meant he was unable to play at Euro 2020 – completing his curse at major tournaments.
Sadio Mane also had no luck on his side after picking up an injury in Bayern Munich’s penultimate game before the World Cup.
The Senegal star will undergo tests after limping off the pitch against Werder Bremen on Tuesday but the early signs do not look good and he could be out of the tournament.
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A number of high-profile stars are in a similar position including England pair Ben Chilwell and Reece James, with the latter confirming he will not be on the plane.
France midfielders Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante have also been ruled out with injury, as has Spain and Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Portugal forward Diogo Jota will miss out after he was stretchered off in Liverpool’s win over Manchester City last month.
And he could be joined by Barcelona and Uruguay star Ronald Araujo who suffered a thigh injury in September and is likely to miss out.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
