Hoffenheim take on Dortmund

"There has been a lot of talk over the past week. I'll be happy to be back on the pitch playing football again on Sunday. We need the three points to calm things down a bit here," said 1899 defender Christian Eichner ahead of the Matchday 31 clash.

Work as a team

Coach Ralf Rangnick is hoping for a positive reaction to all the gossip from his team: "The lads need answer their critics this Sunday and show that they are able to perform as a team." There was plenty of emphasis on team tactics in training this week, while Rangnick showed himself to be well aware of BVB's strengths: "Dortmund constantly attack, put you under pressure and counter," said the 1899 boss on the Bundesliga's fourth placed team.

Hildebrand set to return

Goalkeeper Timo Hildebrand could be set for a return between the sticks this weekend after making his comeback in training on Friday without any problems. Captain Per Nilsson (knee), as well as Matthias Jaissle, Isaac Vorsah and Demba Ba remain unavailable, though Vorsah is however nearing a return to training. Vedad Ibisevic, Andreas Ibertsberger and Eichner will all need to be careful not to pick up a booking if they are to avoid suspension from next week's match against Hamburger SV.

Klopp without Schmelzer and Kehl

Dortmund defender Marcel Schmelzer already picked up his fifth yellow card of the season and is subsequently suspended for the match against Hoffenheim. BVB coach Jürgen Klopp will also have to do without Sebastian Kehl (thigh) and Patrick Owomoyela (groin).