Schalke 04 manager Markus Weinzierl is facing an injury crisis ahead of Saturday's clash with Freiburg, which could make way for Ghanaian youngster Bernard Tekpetey’s Bundesliga bow.

Although captain Benedikt Howedes is back competing for a starting role after serving suspension, the Royal Blues will have to do without a host of players for the Bundesliga game, particularly on the forward lines.

Cameroon striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Motin is the latest to be sidelined, joining the likes of Breel Embolo, Franco di Santo and Klaas Jan Huntelaar.

"The injuries have come in a cluster," Weinzier has said.

"We will look to find the right solutions before the game. I am sure that we will manage it.

"Almost all our attackers are injured, but not all of them.

"Of course the injuries hurt, but we have the options to compensate for them.

"We have the options of the younger players in Fabian Reese, Bernard Tekpetey and Donis Avdijaj for that role.

“Having Benedikt back is extremely important. He can really help lead the younger players like Thilo Kehrer, who was excellent against Leverkusen."

The 19-year-old Tekpetey was impressive on his professional debut against OGC Nice in the Europa League last month, but that has remained his only senior appearance for the Gelsenkirchen-based outfit.

He joined Schalke from Ghanaian side Unistar Soccer Academy on a three-year deal in February.