Dortmund boss gives injury update on trio

With Borussia Dortmund‘s pre-season preparations underway, captain Emre Can and defender Nico Schlotterbeck remain sidelined with no clear return dates.

Can has been out since March after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), while Schlotterbeck sustained a medial ligament injury in his ankle during the World Cup.

Speaking during a media session on Thursday, BVB sporting director Ole Book confirmed that there is currently no timetable for the returns of the two key defensive players.

“Even for very experienced doctors and our rehabilitation coaches, it’s extremely difficult to predict the future. I see both of them every day working hard in rehab, fully motivated. They also continue to contribute a great deal as leaders within the squad,” Book said.

“So nobody can say exactly how much longer it will take. And I’m certainly not the one who can.”

As for Carney Chukwuemeka, who picked up a knock during Dortmund‘s 1-0 friendly win over FC Tokyo last week, Book provided more positive news.

“Carney landed on his knee some days ago. I’m not too worried that it’s anything serious. At least it wasn’t an issue beforehand,” he said.