14.01.2010

Seven sidelined for visit of Bochum?

Roberto Colautti is likely to miss the match against Bochum, Borussia coach Michael Frontzeck announced at today's press conference.

Frontzeck is definitely without six players, probably seven, but may be able to call upon the services of an eighth. Oliver Neuville might make the squad, the Borussia boss told journalists. "It's looking a little better as far as he's concerned. Roberto probably won't be fit in time, however, and we don't intend to take any risks", added Frontzeck this lunchtime, even though there are still two training sessions to go before the visit of the Ruhr-based outfit.

Regardless of whether Neuville makes the squad, in contrast to Colautti, Frontzeck will have to rejig his team. So will he opt for a different system or not? "I still have a bit of time before I make that decision", said Frontzeck, who has been monitoring his players very closely over the last few weeks. "No one has taken their foot off the pedal, the players are in good physical shape and are looking to build on the first half of the season. That said, we're starting from scratch again, and Bochum are awkward opponents, especially away from home. We have lots of respect for them, but no more than that, because we always go out to impose our game no matter who we're playing."

If the reverse fixture is anything to go by, anyone who is unsure whether to come to Saturday's game (kick-off 1530 CET) should make up their minds fairly quickly. "The 3-3 draw will have been a great game to watch for everyone who was there with the exception of the two coaches", said Frontzeck, who was unwilling to reveal his hand as far as his team selection was concerned. The only thing that is certain is that Rob Friend, Karim Matmour, Paul Stalteri, Jan-Ingwer Callsen-Bracker, Gal Alberman and Christian Dorda are all ruled out. Frontzeck said: "But anyone who comes in has my full confidence!"