Kovač senses “the team is on pace” ahead of clash with Athletic Club

BVB’s press conference for their clash with Bilbao was attended by Niko Kovač and Nico Schlotterbeck – here’s what they said below.

With preparations under way to face Athletic Club tomorrow evening, Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovač gave insights into their opponent and an update his squad.

“We expect a motivated and difficult opponent. But we’re playing at home and, of course, we want to win this game.

“Serhou scored many important goals for us. I’m still pleased with the depth of the squad. Julian Brandt did a great job. It shows that the team is on pace.

“Duranville, Anselmino, and Can won’t be there. Serhou completed his final training session. Everything was fine. He’d be ready to play tomorrow,” Kovač explained.

Having completed two consecutive 90-minute outings in a row, Nico Schlotterbeck is eager to taste Champions League football. He was full of praise for two teammates in particular.

“I’m a big fan of attackers working together against the ball. Then it’s easy for us to do the rest. The coordination was really good. We also have a great goalkeeper in Greg [Kobel].

“I really like the way Ramy [Bensebaini] plays. He works well going forward and plays very seriously. He has good timing. We’re very happy to have him on our team,” he added.