It’s an interesting challenge Niko Kovac will have to overcome in the next few days. Two games within five days against the same opponents, in two different competitions. The double-header against Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga on Saturday and DFB Cup on Wednesday will certainly influence the tactician’s decisions regarding team selection.
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As Niklas Süle is currently suspended in the cup, the Bayern head coach doesn’t want to take any risks with Mats Hummels. The central defender was able to run again after suffering a strain from the Düsseldorf game and “feels good so far, but if there is still a residual risk, he won’t play”, Kovac said. In addition to the 30-year-old, James Rodríguez is also a doubt for the home game on Saturday. The Colombian has “problems with his adductor muscle”, and both will have to wait till the final training session for a decision.
If they can’t play, Corentin Tolisso could be ready to go. Following his cruciate ligament rupture, the 24-year-old is training well and “feels confident enough to be in the squad”. Whether the Frenchman will actually be on the bench at the Allianz Arena “depends on the players who are carrying injuries,” Kovac explained.
Arjen Robben, who’s currently undergoing advanced rehab training and captain Manuel Neuer, who suffered a muscle fibre tear in his calf against Düsseldorf, are definitely out. Sven Ulreich will deputise for the Germany keeper. Kovac expressed his confidence in Neuer’s understudy, saying: “We can always rely on Sven. I don’t have any concerns.”
