Badstuber confident despite Boateng absence

Bayern München defender Holger Badstuber admits losing Jerome Boateng is a big blow for the club but believes they can succeed without him

Bayern began the second half of the Bundesliga season with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Hamburger SV to maintain their eight-point lead at the top of the league table, but lost Boateng to injury in the process.

"If you lose a crucial player it takes the gloss off any win. Nevertheless, the atmosphere is positive," he told the club's website.

"Now we want to keep on winning for Jérôme. He's contributed a lot to our season so far. He'll return towards the end of the campaign, and I hope he can still play some games, top-notch ones in particular. We'll do everything to make that happen."

When asked what impact his absence would have on the Bavarians' defence, Badstuber replied: "Basically none. We've got other players too, I included, and we have to compensate for Jérôme's lay-off.

"It's not going to be easy because he's a pillar. But it's no use moaning. We'll continue to take on our opponents with confidence."

Next up for the defending Bundesliga champions is a home clash against relegation-threatened TSG Hoffenheim at the Allianz Arena on Sunday.