Leonardo Balerdi will return to Dortmund earlier than expected after sustaining an injury to his mouth cavity at the South American U20 Championship. "We're expecting him back at the start of next week," said sporting director Michael Zorc.

However, the highly talented defender, who was signed during the winter break, is not expected to face a longer-term absence. Zorc spoke of a "laceration in the upper lip", adding: "That means he cannot feature in the remainder of the tournament."

Balerdi is set to commence running training in Dortmund at the start of next week. "We'll know more when we see him in person," explained Zorc. The 20-year-old sustained the injury during a first-round game against Uruguay on 25 January. (br)