Gotze ruled out for up to 12 weeks

Mario Gotze suffered a groin injury against Republic of
Ireland and Bayern Munich have confirmed he faces
three months out of action.

Mario Gotze is facing up to 12 weeks on the sidelines after
suffering a groin injury, Bayern Munich have confirmed.

The 23-year-old was taken off midway through the first half of
Germany's defeat to Republic of Ireland on Thursday after
pulling up with an adductor problem.

The former Borussia Dortmund star has since undergone further
medical tests and Bayern have confirmed it could be January
2016 before Gotze can play again.

"Mario Gotze will be missing for 10 to 12 weeks," read a
statement on Bayern's official website.

"The 23-year-old retired from the match on Thursday with an
injury to his adductor muscle, which was confirmed by a test on
Friday.

"Gotze will be treated at first by the DFB medical team in
Leipzig."

The news comes as a blow to Bayern, with Gotze having
enjoyed a strong run of form in recent weeks following heavy
criticism during the early part of his career at the Allianz Arena.