Kovac reveals updates on Schlotterbeck ahead of Hoffenheim clash

Niko Kovac has revealed the latest on defender Nico Schlotterbeck ahead of Borussia Dortmund's clash with TSG 1899 Hoffenheim next Saturday in the Bundesliga.

Schlotterbeck, who missed nearly two and a half months due to a tear in the internal ligament of his left ankle that kept him out of the World Cup, returned to individual ball training on Wednesday, an important step on his road to returning to participate with the team.

Kovac said: "I hope Niko will be in full team training within the week or two. After that, he will be an option available to us."

He added about his current situation: "Ancelotti is indeed training on the pitch, and of course, it's individually, all without a competitor."

Kovac continued: "We will see how much we can increase the workload in the coming days. The goal, of course, is for Schlotterbeck to join us as soon as possible, but it shouldn't be forced."