Albert Sambi Lokonga set for Hamburg return against Leipzig

Hamburg midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga is expected to return to training this week and could be available for the Bundesliga trip to RB Leipzig.

The midfielder was absent from HSV’s heavy 5-0 defeat to Mainz after suffering a back problem during the final training session before the match.

Head coach Merlin Polzin explained that the issue arose from an awkward movement in training, leaving Lokonga unable to take part on Sunday. “Sambi made a wrong movement in the final training session, and it pulled into his back, so he was not able to play,” Polzin said after the game.

Fortunately for Hamburg, the problem does not appear to be serious. Polzin expects the club’s medical and coaching staff to resolve it early in the new training week, allowing the midfielder to rejoin preparations without an extended spell on the sidelines.

“I assume we will get it sorted at the start of the week,” Polzin added. The coach hopes Lokonga will “then be available again for the match in Leipzig.”

His potential return would offer a timely boost after HSV’s difficult afternoon against Mainz. Lokonga’s presence in midfield could provide added composure and ball security as Hamburg look to respond positively against one of the division’s toughest opponents. A final decision will depend on how he responds in training over the coming days.