Borussia Mönchengladbach head coach Alexander Blessin has provided a definitive update on Tim Kleindienst’s injury status, signaling the 31-year-old captain’s imminent return to the squad. While the striker remains unavailable for the upcoming away fixture against Hamburger SV, Blessin indicated that Kleindienst could rejoin the team following the international break. The most likely scenario sees him returning as an impact substitute for the high-stakes Bundesliga encounter against Borussia Dortmund on November 21, marking a crucial milestone in his recovery journey.
Borussia Mönchengladbach captain expected to return as bench option for Dortmund clash
Kleindienst’s path back to full fitness has been fraught with setbacks, having spent a year sidelined with cartilage damage before suffering a second muscle tear early in the current campaign. This prolonged absence has also cost him a place in Jürgen Klopp’s Germany squad, with the national team coach opting for Niclas Füllkrug for the upcoming international window. Despite these hurdles, the club remains confident in his rehabilitation, with Blessin’s comments suggesting the forward is nearing the final stages of his recovery protocol.
In the interim, Shuto Machino has stepped into the starting striker role, while fit-again Isac Lidberg provides additional depth up front. Blessin faces defensive adjustments for the HSV match, as Daiki Hashioka is expected to miss out due to muscle issues. However, the squad gains a boost with the return of Ko Itakura, who has regained full fitness, and Kevin Diks, who is back after being away for family reasons, ensuring Gladbach fields a competitive lineup despite the ongoing injury concerns.
Source: Yahoo Sports
