The 50-year-old tactician is en route to his native Germany after his son, Fabio, was involved in a serious vehicle accident in Nuremberg.

While the details are vague, it is reported that the 24-year-old is in a coma and in a mortal condition.

German publication Bild reported that Zinnbauer’s son is fighting for his life.

“A serious accident happened on Münchener Strasse in Nuremberg on October 23. The 24-year-old Skoda driver is in mortal danger.

“It is the son of Joe Zinnbauer. The ex-HSV coach is very worried about Fabio.

“Fabio is seriously injured and is in a coma. The police are investigating. How it came to the horror crash at 1 pm has not yet been clarified.”

The Buccaneers have confirmed that the former Celtic assistant, Fadlu Davids, will take the reins for Wednesday night’s fixture at the Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium.

At this stage, it is also unclear if Zinnbauer will be back in South Africa in time for Sunday’s MTN8 semi-final second leg against Kaizer Chiefs at the FNB Stadium.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport