Niko Kovac backs Nico Schlotterbeck return as Dortmund eye Augsburg win

Speaking before the game, Kovac confirmed that defender Nico Schlotterbeck had returned to full training, giving Dortmund a timely boost as they chased consecutive league victories.

"Carney Chukwuemeka is training partially," Kovac explained. "Nico Schlotterbeck is fully back. Filippo Mane is making progress in his rehabilitation and Julian Brandt is ill."

The Dortmund manager also welcomed the new contract signed by midfielder Felix Nmecha, describing the 23-year-old as a crucial figure for the club's future.

"I'm convinced we're all happy," Kovac said. "We as a team, but also our fans. He's a key player, he's steadily improved but he can still improve more. Felix is at a good age and is slowly reaching his peak. He has good dribbling, good vision and can finish, but he can become even more of a goal threat. As a person, he's a fantastic guy."

Kovac also praised the progress of forward Maximilian Beier, highlighting the work ethic that has driven the young attacker's development.

"His development is going in a very positive direction," Kovac said. "He doesn't always play the full 90 minutes because he plays at his limit every time. He has an excellent chance of being at the World Cup. He can still become more of a goal threat, but his hard work is paying off."

Looking ahead to the match, Kovac warned that Augsburg - now coached by Manuel Baum - would provide a difficult challenge.

"The team has absorbed what the new coach has asked of them," he said. "They've organised themselves very well in all areas and achieved that through focused hard work."

Despite the challenge, Kovac made Dortmund's objective clear.

"It will be difficult, but we want to win," he said. "We want two wins before the international break."