Kofi Amoako in line to replace Nicolai Remberg at Hamburg

Hamburger SV face a major midfield challenge after Nicolai Remberg suffered a long-term knee injury, leaving head coach Merlin Polzin searching for the right solution ahead of Saturday’s home game against VfB Stuttgart.

Kofi Amoako is among the leading candidates to step into the defensive midfield role. Polzin said the 21-year-old’s positional discipline makes him a natural fit as a holding midfielder.

“We can’t replace Rambo one-to-one. We will cover it differently and develop it,” Polzin said on Thursday.

Amoako impressed in a friendly win over Copenhagen and after coming on against Hoffenheim. “Maybe the momentum is a bit on his side,” Polzin said, while admitting there are still areas where he wants more from the youngster.

Nicolas Capaldo is another option, but Polzin values his dynamism in the back three. Albert Sambi Lokonga, who is nursing a minor issue, and Bilal Nadir are also possibilities, while a tactical change has not been ruled out.

Miro Muheim is unlikely to play as the holding midfielder, despite impressing in a more advanced role against Hoffenheim.