Ulreichs injury aggravates Bayerns goalkeeper troubles

Bayern Munichs difficulties with goalkeepers have worsened significantly after the club announced that backup option Sven Ulreich is out of action due to a groin problem.

Bayern will welcome Atalanta for the return fixture in their Champions League round of sixteen clash on Tuesday and might have to turn to a fourth choice option in goal.

Skipper Manuel Neuer remains sidelined by a calf issue while deputy Jonas Urbig suffered a concussion during Bayerns 6-1 triumph against Atalanta in the opening leg.

Ulreich featured for the first time this season on Saturday and made several vital stops to secure a draw at Bayer Leverkusen despite Munich ending the game with just nine players.

The experienced shot stopper who has largely served as Neuer's understudy throughout his career completed the match on Saturday but could not take the last goal kick owing to discomfort in his thigh.

Bayern released a statement indicating that Ulreich sustained an adductor injury during the 1-1 stalemate at Bayer Leverkusen and is thus unavailable for now.

The update did not specify the duration of Ulreichs absence but newspaper Bild suggested it could be around six weeks.

Bayern noted that Neuer will stay out until at least April whereas manager Vincent Kompany mentioned on Friday that medical experts are assessing Urbigs fitness.

Leon Klanac the primary choice for the reserve side is also injured leaving 19 year old Jannis Baertl or 16 year old Leonard Prescott as possible quick call ups.

The title holders lead second placed Borussia Dortmund by nine points in the Bundesliga standings.

In the Champions League Bayerns substantial victory in the initial encounter with Atalanta positions them for a potential quarter final against Real Madrid or Manchester City.

Real Madrid enjoy a strong 3-0 lead going into their return match in Manchester.