But with the two now up and running again the Spur's midfielder has lifted the lid on the bond that was formed between the two both at the camp and during the time spent together in the International set-up, and says that his injury pales into insignificance when compared with Babbel's.
"We were together in a rehabilitation centre in Donaustauf and we spent a lot of time together
"Everyone was telling me 'your cruciate ligament, one of the worst injuries in the world' but then I see Markus and then I know what is really serious.
"He was in a wheelchair for a few months. That is why it is wonderful to see him back.
"It was a shock to see him, a friend, a footballer, in a wheelchair. He was so ill overnight, maybe he could have been finished with football, maybe he could die even, all that to a person so young.
"I can remember we had a training session not far from the rehabilitation centre when we both kicked a ball again for the first time.
"We were a little tired afterwards, a lot of mistakes, but we were so happy afterwards. That was a special day.
"He played together in the German national team for a few years and we always had a good relationship. Honestly, I am very pleased for him, a friend and a very nice man.
And Freund is hoping that the two will lock horns when the two sides face each other this Saturday, if only for a brief spell.
"It is wonderful to see him back in the squad. I still hope he will play from the beginning on Saturday especially as he didn't play in the Champions League on Tuesday, perhaps he will play against us.
"It would be nice to see Markus out there because we had a bad time together and now we are back and for both of us, it will be special day."