The hope that Marco Reus and Sebastian Rode would be in the squad for Saturday's home game against FC Bayern has been dashed. Furthermore, Raphael Guerreiro's presence is also under threat.

An end to BVB's injury plight seemed to be just around the corner during the international break. "Yesterday and the day before, it briefly felt on the training ground as though we were about to get back what we so desperately need, namely, competition for places, experience and quality of the highest level", said Thomas Tuchel. However, around that corner awaited only setbacks. Tuchel spoke of "a number of flies in the ointment".

  • Marco Reus has a problem with his heel. "Nothing happened, and it is not a complaint that has anything to do with his long layoff. He has been training for weeks at full intensity without any trouble.
  • But it is painful for him when walking", according to Tuchel. As Reus' adoption of a "relieving posture" in order to disencumber his heel during any kind of involvement on Saturday cannot be ruled out, an action which may antagonise his old adductor injury or cause a new one, the star offensive player will not participate.
  • Sebastian Rode was able to start full training again just about two weeks ago after his appendix operation. Surprisingly, his operation scar is causing him problems, though.
  • Raphael Guerreiro is complaining of muscular problems, "probably caused by his international obligations and the travel involved", opined Tuchel. "It is very doubtful right now after today's training whether he will be able to play."
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In the middle of the week they were all on the training ground: Reus, Schürrle, Schmelzer

All three players, admitted the coach, would have been candidates for the starting eleven on Saturday against Bayern Munich. Now, improvisation is once again the order of the day: "Nobody will play tomorrow unless absolutely fit." On being questioned about Marcel Schmelzer and André Schürrle, Tuchel responded curtly: "They will play! No question!"

It is of course good news that the captain and the left winger are back on board. A game against Bayern Munich will certainly mean a great expenditure of energy...
Boris Rupert