April 14, 2012 9:30 AM EDT
Veltins-Arena — Gelsenkirchen
Veltins-Arena — Gelsenkirchen
Local rivals meet once more in the Ruhr derby. BVB is on a high after its midweek win against Bayern, while S04 has something to prove following its dismal loss to Nurnberg.
Schalke will be nearly at full strength on Saturday, with only goalkeepers Ralf Fahrmann and Timo Hildebrand sidelined with injuries. It is anticipated that Benedikt Howedes will move into a right back position, and that Christian Fuchs will return to play on the opposite side of defence.
Jermaine Jones' role as a midfield anchor is considered safe, but his partner in the center is uncertain with either Marco Hoger or Lewis Holtby set to fit in alongside the USA international.
Mario Gotze missed Wednesday's 1-0 win over Bayern, but is expected to be fit to feature as a substitute in the big derby. The youngster's return means that only long-term absentee Julian Koch will be out of action for the title holders.
Jurgen Klopp is expected to retain the core of his midweek starting XI, although there may be one change with Sven Bender replacing veteran Sebastian Kehl in defensive midfield.
Schalke will be nearly at full strength on Saturday, with only goalkeepers Ralf Fahrmann and Timo Hildebrand sidelined with injuries. It is anticipated that Benedikt Howedes will move into a right back position, and that Christian Fuchs will return to play on the opposite side of defence.
Jermaine Jones' role as a midfield anchor is considered safe, but his partner in the center is uncertain with either Marco Hoger or Lewis Holtby set to fit in alongside the USA international.
Mario Gotze missed Wednesday's 1-0 win over Bayern, but is expected to be fit to feature as a substitute in the big derby. The youngster's return means that only long-term absentee Julian Koch will be out of action for the title holders.
Jurgen Klopp is expected to retain the core of his midweek starting XI, although there may be one change with Sven Bender replacing veteran Sebastian Kehl in defensive midfield.
