Claudio Pizarro, Clemens Fritz and Torsten Frings have all been ruled out of the match at the San Siro and Schaaf admits the already difficult task of beating the cup holders has been made even more harder.

"These injuries hit us hard," he said on the eve of the game. "In view of our upcoming challenges, these losses mean a drop in quality for the team."

The trio are not only a doubt for tomorrow, but also the Bundesliga clash with Bayer Leverkusen at the weekend.

"We hope that all three get back as soon as possible, but there is the risk that they will miss the next two games," added a despondent Schaaf.

Their loss is just the latest setback in what has been a difficult start to the season for the northern Germany side.

Sunday's derby triumph over Hamburg was only their second win of the season while they drew their Champions League opener against Tottenham.

But tomorrow's match is arguably the toughest in their group.

"Inter are the clear favourites and it is impressive what this team is capable of," he said.

While Schaaf has lost three key players, he can welcome Petri Pasanen back into his defence after he missed the derby with Hamburg due to injury.