Sebastian Kehl was forced off at half-time of BVB’s 2-0 win over Arsenal on Tuesday. “I had groin problems and it made no sense to continue,” said the 34-year-old after the game. Looking ahead to the match against Mainz, he said: “I don’t know if I will be fit in time for Saturday.”

Kehl put in a fine performance in the first half and impressed in a holding midfield role alongside Sven Bender. The former BVB captain was one of the reasons why Arsenal’s attacking game came close to a standstill in the opening 45 minutes.

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“This was a great team performance,“ said Kehl. “It was a deserved win as we had them constantly under pressure and prevented them from getting a foothold in the game. We had a perfect game today.” On Immobile, he said: “He made a big step forward. The fans cheered him wildly. This will do him good.”