Jupp Heynckes has admitted that "there is no timeframe" on Manuel Neuer's return from injury, but the Bayern Munich head coach expects the goalkeeper to represent Germany at the 2018 World Cup.
Neuer has been on the sidelines since undergoing surgery on his broken foot in September, but it is understood that the stopper is nearing a return to action.
Heynckes has said that Bayern "are not pressuring" Neuer, although the experienced manager is hopeful that the 31-year-old will soon feature for the German champions ahead of representing his country in Russia.
"We are not pressuring him. There is no timeframe, there is no deadline," Heynckes told reporters.
"Personally, I am convinced that he will play for us and will play in the World Cup but in the end that is something he has to decide, together with the medical team, when he returns. He can't afford to take any risk and I don't think he will."
Neuer has recently been pictured in Thailand after being given permission by Bayern to continue his recovery abroad.
Matt Law
