Auckland Star’s Season at Risk Following Heartbreaking Injury Setback

Defender Francis De Vries from Auckland FC is set to miss up to six weeks due to a calf injury sustained while representing New Zealand on international duty.

De Vries picked up the injury during the first half of the All Whites’ recent friendly match against Finland at Eden Park.

As a result, he was unable to participate in New Zealand’s impressive 4-1 victory over Chile on Monday afternoon. Auckland has since announced that their star defender will likely miss the rest of the Isuzu UTE A-League regular season, with potential implications for the finals series due to a calf strain.

TOP STORY: Kisnorbo clarifies his position following a controversial exit from the A-Leagues

“This injury means Francis will be sidelined for the remainder of the regular A-League season, though there is hope he might return for the semi-finals,” stated an announcement from Auckland’s official site.

“Wishing you all the best in your recovery, Franny; Auckland can’t wait to see you back out on the field.”

Having excelled in his debut season in the Isuzu UTE A-League, De Vries has been a vital player for the Black Knights this year as well.

In all 22 matches this season, De Vries has netted one goal and provided seven assists, placing him just behind Melbourne Victory star Juan Mata, who leads in both assists (13) and chances created.

Moreover, De Vries leads the league in both ‘Big Chances Created’ (14) and expected assists (xA), boasting a rating of 7.9.

COACHING MERRY-GO-ROUND: Wanderers announce Ufuk Talay’s two-year appointment

De Vries now joins injured captain Hiroki Sakai on the sidelines; the Japanese star is currently recovering from a hamstring issue.

Auckland, positioned second in the Isuzu UTE A-League standings and trailing league leaders Newcastle Jets by four points, will look to navigate their remaining regular-season fixtures against Adelaide United (A), Melbourne Victory (H), Central Coast Mariners (H), and Sydney FC (A) without De Vries.