Marco Reus against Leverkusen before comeback

The captain is back on board: Borussia Dortmund can again plan with Marco Reus in the difficult away game at Bayer Leverkusen on Sunday (5.30 p.m.).

The offensive player took part in team training for the first time on Thursday after his illness. “I am very confident that he will be available on Sunday,” said coach Edin Terzic. Terzic didn’t want to reveal whether Sébastien Haller was in the starting XI for the first time: “We exchange ideas every day. We look at it from day to day and we see that it’s getting better every day.”

The coach didn’t want to see the performances of wingers Karim Adeyemi and Donyell Malen too negatively: “Adeyemi had a lot of good actions in Mainz in the first half. He has improved significantly in the combination game. He also stays on the ball in the gaps. He’s up a really good way.” It’s similar with Malen: “In training he scores five to eight goals in a five-on-five.” However, both would have to improve “in their activity when the ball is not in play”.

Both teams started the new year with two wins. After the narrow successes against Augsburg (4: 3) and in Mainz (2: 1), BVB wants to establish itself with another three at the top. “On Monday we know where the road is leading. Either we’re right in the middle or we have to fight our way back,” said Terzic.

Leverkusen recently even celebrated five wins in a row. “We know about the quality of Leverkusen. They have stabilized a lot under Xabi Alonso. They concede few goals,” said Terzic.

Speaking of new signing Julien Duranville, whose signing became official on Friday, he said: “We’re very happy. He’s a highly talented winger. He’s good in 1-1 situations and has a lot of scoring potential. We’re confident he’ll take us will help in the medium and long term. He still has a muscle injury and unfortunately won’t be back for another two or three weeks.” Then “the clear plan is that he is a squad player in the first team”.