Champions League: Magdeburg hopes for Kristjansson comeback

SC Magdeburg can likely count on backcourt ace Gisli Kristjansson for the Handball Champions League Final Four. "There's a chance he'll be in the squad," said SCM coach Bennet Wiegert, looking ahead to the semifinal against defending champions FC Barcelona in Cologne.

Kristjansson sustained a shoulder injury in a Bundesliga match against TBV Lemgo at the beginning of June and missed Magdeburg's remaining two games of the season. Now, after a quick recovery, the 25-year-old Icelandic international appears to be on the verge of a comeback.

However, Wiegert doesn't want to take any health risks. "Gisli hasn't had any training, which makes it difficult. He needs time. Maybe a few minutes will be enough. We'll see," said the 43-year-old. He is, however, "very happy that he's here and that we have the opportunity to bring him into the tournament."

During Magdeburg's triumph in the Champions League two years ago, Kristjansson caused a stir when he dislocated his shoulder in the semi-final victory against Barcelona and led his team to victory in the final against Kielce a day later despite the injury.