Sahin gives update on injury-hit Dortmund squad ahead of Sturm Graz clash
| Photo: Stuart Franklin/Getty Images |
When Borussia Dortmund beat RB Leipzig 2-1 on Saturday, they did so without a total of 10 first-team players.
And, as head coach Nuri Sahin revealed at a press conference on Monday, the injury list remains long ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash at home against Sturm Graz.
Of the players who missed the win over Leipzig, only youngster Almugera Kabar is expected to return.
In addition to the club's long-term absentees, goalkeeper Gregor Kobel and centre-back Waldemar Anton look set to miss out once again.
"The known absentees remain. I don't think anyone will come back, apart from Almugera Kabar. We will have to see about 'Waldi'. It will be a race against time," Sahin told a press conference on Monday.
"We haven't got the green light from 'Greg' [Kobel] yet," added the BVB coach, who will most likely have to rely on Alexander Meyer in goal once more.
“He is an exceptional team player. He is very popular in the squad and his qualities were on display at the weekend. We're very happy to have him with us. To have a number two like that at this level is amazing.”
On the positive side for Dortmund, Marcel Sabitzer should be fit despite picking up a knock in the win over Leipzig.
“I'm already feeling better. I'm optimistic that I'll be fine tomorrow," said Sabitzer on Monday.