Francis De Vries, defender for Auckland FC, will be out of action for up to six weeks following a calf injury sustained while on international duty.
While representing New Zealand, De Vries picked up the injury during the first half of the All Whites’ recent friendly match against Finland at Eden Park.
He was unable to participate in New Zealand’s commendable 4-1 victory over Chile on Monday afternoon. Auckland FC has since confirmed that their key defender will be absent for the remainder of the Isuzu UTE A-League regular season and possibly the finals series due to a calf strain.
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“The injury means Francis will miss the remainder of the regular A-League season, but there are hopes he could make a potential return for the semi-finals,” Auckland’s official statement read.
“Wishing you all the best in your recovery, Franny. Auckland can’t wait to have you back on the pitch.”
Having excelled in his debut season in the Isuzu UTE A-League, De Vries continues to be a vital presence for the Black Knights this year.
De Vries has started all 22 matches for Auckland this season, contributing one goal and seven assists. He currently ranks second in the league for assists, trailing only Melbourne Victory’s Juan Mata, who has 13. Additionally, De Vries leads the league in ‘Big Chances Created’ with 14 and boasts an expected assists (xA) rating of 7.9.
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He will now join skipper Hiroki Sakai on the injury list, as the Japanese international is currently recuperating from a hamstring injury.
Sitting second on the Isuzu UTE A-League table and four points adrift of leaders Newcastle Jets, Auckland will be without De Vries for their upcoming matches against Adelaide United (A), Melbourne Victory (H), Central Coast Mariners (H), and Sydney FC (A).
Compiled by SportArena.au
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