Hibs striker Cohen to have hernia surgery in Germany

Andrew Cohen will be flying out to Germany early next month to undergo a hernia operation.

The latest injury is another setback for the Hibs forward who has just recovered from a groin problem but he is hopeful of making a full recovery within 15 days of the operation.

"This hernia problem is basically an after-effect of the groin tear I suffered a few months ago," Cohen, who has started only one match for Hibs this season, said.

"I've chosen to do the operation in Germany because their surgery method significantly reduces the time of recovery.

"I've been told that rehab from a hernia operation performed at this German clinic takes from five to 15 days but had I done the same intervention elsewhere, I'd need up to six weeks to recover.

"The operation will take place on November 11 and I will be back the following day."

Despite his injury, Cohen has continued to train with Hibs and is likely to be included in Mark Miller's squad for the FA Trophy first round match against St George's on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Birkirkara are set to give a trial to two British players and one from Central Africa as they continue their search for Emil Yantchev's replacement.

Sources have told The Times that Birkirkara have arranged two friendly matches for next week to give coach John Buttigieg the opportunity to have a close look at the trialists.