Bayern boss Heynckes gives Neuer and Thiago fitness updates | OneFootball

Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes has some good news regarding two of his injured stars.

Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer hasn’t featured since fracturing his metatarsal back in September, while midfielder Thiago Alcântara has been out since November with a muscle injury.

But while Thiago is much closer to a return to action than Neuer, Heynckes says both players are progressing well on the road to recovery.

“It’s very pleasing to see how Thiago is getting on with his rehab,” Heynckes told reporters on Monday.

“He will be able to take part in today’s session fully and I’m also planning to involve him in Wednesday’s session. But we’re not going to take any risks with him.

“Manuel is doing well, but we don’t want to start speculating about a return date as that would be counter-productive and would only lead to increased pressure,” he added.

Bayern travel to face 3. Liga side Paderborn in Tuesday evening’s DFB Pokal quarter-final clash but it seems they may be forced to do without one or two first-team players.

“Jérôme Boateng called in sick today with stomach flu,” said Heynckes.

“Javi Martínez still has a few problems, hopefully he’ll be fit for Schalke [on Saturday].

“Arturo Vidal will train with the team today and if all goes well, he’ll travel.”

Paderborn are currently top of 3. Liga and Heynckes says he’s been impressed by what he’s seen of Steffen Baumgart’s side.

“That’s how I spent my Sunday yesterday, watching two Paderborn matches,” he said.

“I was very impressed by how they play football – well-structured, hard-running and aggressive.”

Bayern are now just two victories away from reaching the final of the Pokal, which Heynckes last won as part of his incredible treble in 2013.

“The Pokal final in Berlin is very special,” he said.

“The atmosphere in the crowd – I have wonderful memories of these finals. Of course we have ambitions of getting there!”