Gotze out indefinitely with ‘metabolic disturbances’

Borussia Dortmund have confirmed that Mario Gotze has been ruled out ‘for the time being’ with ‘metabolic disturbances’.

Gotze has started just nine Bundesliga games this season and has not played at all since January.

In a statement on their website, Dortmund revealed: ‘The 24-year-old World Cup winner has continually suffered with muscular problems in the last few months, prompting a comprehensive internal investigation into the possible causes.

‘Those investigations revealed the player has metabolic disturbances, rendering it absolutely necessary to withdraw him from team training for the time being.’

Gotze himself is quoted as saying: “I’m currently undergoing treatment and will do everything in my power to be back in training and helping my team to achieve our common goals as soon as possible.”

Borussia Dortmund’s Sporting Director Michael Zorc said: “We’re happy to have now uncovered the reasons for Mario’s difficulties and are convinced that his extraordinary abilities will give us additional quality once he has completely recovered from this. Mario has the full backing and maximum support of everyone at BVB during his recovery!”