Football Football Juventus loses Howedes until 2018 Benedikt Howedes will be sidelined for several weeks, while Mario Mandzukic is a doubt for the Champions League trip to Olympiacos. Matt Dorman 03 December, 2017 00:43 IST Juventus defender Benedikt Howedes. - Getty Images Matt Dorman 03 December, 2017 00:43 IST Juventus is likely to be without the services of Germany international Benedikt Howedes until the new year, the club has confirmed.The defender has torn a muscle in his right thigh in a continuation of his frustrating start to life in Turin.READ: Juventus' injury-stricken Higuain ends Napoli runOn loan from Schalke, the 29-year-old has appeared only once in Serie A as he battles persistent injuries.Howedes missed Friday's crucial 1-0 win at leader Napoli, which saw Juve close the gap at the top to a single point.The Bianconeri now turn their attention to sealing a place in the Champions League knockout stages, which they can do with a win away to Olympiacos on Tuesday.ALSO READ: Spalletti focused on finishing in top four at season endCroatia forward Mario Mandzukic is a doubt for the trip to Athens after picking up a calf problem in training. Read more stories on Football. For more updates, follow Sportstar on :