Dortmund's in-form Brandt not guaranteed to face ex-club Leverkusen

Borussia Dortmund playmaker Julian Brandt is enjoying a good spell but that still does not guarantee him a starting spot at former club Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday, coach Niko Kovac has said.

"He is playing very well. Maybe he will play on Saturday against his old club," Kovac told a news conference on Friday ahead of the big Bundesliga clash between third and fourth. "But I'm still pondering it a bit."

Brandt, who has been in and out of the team this term due to fitness and form, pulled the strings as the Black and Yellows beat Villarreal 4-0 at home in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The win partly banished memories of last weekend's 3-3 Bundesliga draw with VfB Stuttgart, where they lost the lead twice - including in stoppage time.

Another bright spot of late has been 20-year-old Argentinian defender Aaron Anselmino, who is on loan from Chelsea.

"He is a super guy and super defender," the Croatian said, looking ahead to the January transfer window when he hopes Chelsea do not call. "I expect that he will stay our player for the rest of the season. That's my wish."

Kovac also hopes centre back Nico Schlotterbeck extends his deal, which runs until 2027, amid interest from top European clubs.

"I am optimistic," Kovac said. "I don't know to what extent I can influence that, except by showing him my appreciation which I do every day."

Niklas Süle is again out against Leverkusen with a toe injury while Maxi Beier is a slight doubt with a muscle problem.

Leverkusen won at Manchester City in midweek in the Champions League and Kovac said: "That shows the quality of the team, the coach and the difficulties we are going to face."

The sides meet again on Tuesday in the German Cup last 16, this time in Dortmund.