Patson Daka available for Hamburg SV after recovering from thigh injury

Patson Daka is in contention to return to action for Hamburger SV after recovering from a thigh muscle injury ahead of Saturday’s Bundesliga away fixture against SC Paderborn 07.

The 27-year-old striker has been sidelined for around four weeks and missed Hamburg’s previous two league matches. However, his progress in training has put him in line for a potential return to the matchday squad.

Head coach Merlin Polzin confirmed the positive news during Thursday’s press conference, revealing that Daka, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Bakery Jatta had all resumed training to varying degrees.

“Patson, Sambi Lokonga and Bakery Jatta have participated extensively or fully in training and are therefore available again for the weekend,” Polzin said.

Daka has gradually increased his workload this week after returning to team training, marking an important milestone in his recovery. His availability gives Hamburg another option in attack as they prepare for their trip to Paderborn.

The Zambian international sustained the muscle injury during international duty in September, disrupting his early-season campaign and forcing him to miss several important fixtures.

Although Polzin has confirmed that Daka is available again, it remains unclear whether the forward will immediately return to the starting lineup or be eased back into action from the bench.

Hamburg have won three consecutive Bundesliga matches and will be hoping to maintain that momentum against Paderborn. Daka’s return provides an additional attacking option as the club looks to extend its winning run.

Saturday’s encounter is scheduled to kick off at 15:30 local time. Daka will hope to make his return to competitive action as Hamburg continue their push for another positive result.