On January 22nd, Bayer Leverkusen will continue with the derby against Gladbach in the Bundesliga. There is a risk of dropping out against Borussia Patrik Schick: the Czech has groin problems.

Bayer 04 Leverkusen played a disappointing first half of the season. In October, those responsible pulled the ripcord and released Gerardo Seoane. His successor was Xabi Alonso, who was at least able to stabilize the Werkself. The trend reversal should finally follow in the second half of the season, ideally right at the start with a derby win against Gladbach.

But: head coach Alonso will most likely have to do without Patrik Schick against the foals. Schick, who has just three competitive goals this season, has persistent groin problems. Schick played his last competitive game in November. The start of the second half of the season against Gladbach is probably too early for the Czech. "It's going to be difficult. He's not usually there, we need more time with him. Patrik feels better. But he's not fit for training at the moment," Xabi Alonso explained to the picture. Alonso does not want to use the failure of his top scorer as an excuse. "Of course Patrik is important for us. We have to be patient and wait, injuries are part of the game. We hope he'll be fit soon," said the Spaniard. The Werkself simply have too many alternatives for that, as Alonso knows: "We have Sardar (Azmoun, note). For him it is his traditional position. We have Adam Hlozek, who accepts the role well and helps the team a lot. It's not his ideal position, but he does it is good."

This article was originally published on 90min.com/de as Leverkusen are still worried about Patrik Schick.