Aston Villa Midfielder Leon Goretzka has been ruled out until after the international break.
Goretzka joined Villa last month after his contract at Bayern Munich expired.
The Germany international, who has not played since Die Mannschaft’s exit from the World Cup at the hands of Paraguay in the last 16, was expected to be available for Villa’s season immediately after signing four days after the opening 4-0 defeat by Brighton and Hove Albion.
But the 31-year-old has yet to regain fitness and, following a setback, will now have to wait until October to make his Villa bow.
the court he wrote on Instagram: “Dear Villans. First of all, thank you for the incredible welcome. After my first few days at this club, the feeling that I am exactly where I need to be has become stronger with each passing day.
“Unfortunately my body has reacted to the increased workload after my time off the pitch. It’s frustrating but I need this little break now to come back at full strength.
“I will use the next few days, including the international break, to fully recover and I will be ready to fight again and give everything for you and Villa. I can’t wait to see you on the pitch soon! Thanks for your support, Leon.”
Goretzka made the debut wait
Villa are winless in their opening three Premier League games after following up the defeat at Brighton with a 1-0 home defeat to Arsenal and a 0-0 draw at newly promoted Hull City.
They visit Club Brugge in the Champions League on Tuesday before welcoming Nottingham Forest to Villa Park.
After an EFL Cup clash with Coventry City, their final game before the break sees Villa visit Tottenham.
Goretzka could make his debut against Brentford on October 10.