Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck will return to Champions League action on Wednesday when the German side hosts Athletic Bilbao, with the team focused on improving their defensive performance after a recent collapse in Europe.
Dortmund came agonisingly close to an away win against Juventus two weeks ago, only to concede twice in stoppage time and settle for a dramatic 4-4 draw. Schlotterbeck, who suffered a serious knee injury in April, has since made his domestic return and featured in Dortmund’s last two Bundesliga matches.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, the 24-year-old admitted he is still working towards his best form. “The last two games were good,” he said. “But I know I can play much better. I can add 10 or 20 percent and would be happy if I could do it.”
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann welcomed Schlotterbeck’s return to fitness, confirming he will be part of the national squad for next month’s World Cup qualifiers.
For Dortmund manager Niko Kovac, the timing of Schlotterbeck’s return is ideal as he looks to build on recent defensive progress. “Turin, 4-4, but those last two goals… the team is determined to defend better,” Kovac said. “We wanted to work on this part of the game. We did it well in the last couple of matches.”
Dortmund are currently enjoying a strong run in the Bundesliga, with four consecutive wins and clean sheets, the latest a 2-0 victory over Mainz 05 on Saturday. “We have done it well in the last few games. I see a development. Everyone is determined to do it better. If they don’t, it will be hard for our team,” Kovac added.
In another boost, top scorer Serhou Guirassy is expected to be available after missing the win over Mainz due to an injury during the warmup. “Serhou completed the final training and it all went well,” Kovac confirmed. “I don’t think there will be any surprise so it looks like he will be ready for tomorrow.”
