Kovac gives update on Schlotterbeck: “We’re giving ‘Schlotti’ the time he needs”

Niko Kovac has given an update on Nico Schlotterbeck after the centre-back returned to partial team training on Wednesday.

Nico Schlotterbeck is edging closer to a return from the meniscus tear he suffered five months ago, having resumed partial team training on Wednesday.

However, Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac stressed on Thursday that the centre-back still needs time before he can feature in a match.

“Schlotti is partially active and is still doing training without contact,” Kovac said at a press conference.

“We’re giving Schlotti the time he needs. He’s not ready for a competitive match yet. He should be 100% fit and available.”

In addition to Schlotterbeck, Niklas Süle, Emre Can, Julien Duranville and new signing Fabio Silva will miss Dortmund’s upcoming game against Heidenheim due to injuries.

Julian Brandt, meanwhile, remains a doubt after undergoing wrist surgery during the international break.

“With Julian Brandt, we’ll have to see if he’s ready by the weekend,” Kovac added.