Soccer-Bayern keepers hit by illness, shoelaces

BERLIN, Feb 13 (Reuters) - Bayern Munich may be forced to turn to 41-year-old Bernd Dreher to keep goal in Thursday's UEFA Cup game with Aberdeen after the club's regular keepers were hit by illness and a mysterious shoelace accident.

Bayern number one Oliver Kahn, suffering from flu symptoms, travelled with the Bayern team to Scotland only to be sent straight back on doctor's orders.

Michael Rensing, Kahn's deputy, is doubtful for the round of 32 game after injuring his back while bending to tie his shoelaces.

"A couple of days ago Michael hurt his back while tying his shoes," coach Ottmar Hitzfeld told reporters with the Bayern team. "I'm confident he'll be able to play, though. In an emergency we'll find someone to tie his laces for him."

If Hitzfeld does have to call on Dreher it will be only his third senior match in the last three seasons.

Bayern will be without four other first-team regulars on Thursday.

Franck Ribery is out with a hamstring strain, while fellow midfielder Mark van Bommel has a thigh problem. Centre-back Daniel van Buyten is still recovering from a bout of flu, while 30-year-old full-back Willy Sagnol is being rested.

(Writing by Kevin Fylan)