Bremen won't risk Pizarro

Pizarro: Foot injury

Werder Bremen boss Thomas Schaaf will not rush Claudio Pizarro back from injury.

The former Chelsea striker had been in fine form for the German giants this season, netting 12 goals in 13 starts, before injury struck.

However, despite his reliance on Pizarro's strike rate, boss Schaaf does not want to jeopardise the Peruvian's long-term future by hauling him back into his side too early.

"Claudio will surely need more time. He has had a foot injury and you have to be aware an injury to the tarsal bone is very difficult," Schaaf told the club's official website.

"I would be delighted to have him back for selection, but most important is he is getting fit. We are taking care of this and we are not going to put pressure on him, there is no reason to do so."

Meanwhile, Schaaf has received a boost ahead of his side's visit of champions Wolfsburg as captain Torsten Frings returns from injury.

"I am happy to have Torsten back from his injury," added Schaaf.

"He is the captain of our club and absolutely key to our hopes. We are happy to rely on him and his experience."