Overview

• Tim Lemperle sustained facial injuries, including a broken nose, during a May 11 altercation on a party boat in Rodenkirchen, reportedly while intoxicated with over two promille alcohol.
• Police have launched an investigation into the incident, with the alleged attacker, a local craftsman and FC Köln fan, claiming self-defense.
• Coach Friedhelm Funkel has not ruled out Lemperle’s participation in Sunday’s match against Kaiserslautern, contingent on his fitness, though his absence remains likely.
• The match is critical for 1. FC Köln, who need at least a draw to secure direct promotion to the Bundesliga, with Lemperle being the team’s top scorer this season.
• Lemperle’s lawyer asserts his client is the victim in the case, rejecting allegations of misconduct, as the player prepares to join Hoffenheim next season.