The two have found a home in a similar part of the table, and the narrative of the clubs are heading in different directions. Schalke has jetted to unimaginable heights over recent seasons, but their soar has begun to stall like a B trying to fly to the moon. The World Cup champion defender will be the one healthy piece Schalke manager Jens Keller will be able to rely upon in defense.
He will be beside inexperienced Kaan Ayhan, who has started only as a fullback this season, which means he will like have to blanket inevitable youthful mistakes as the year-old continues to get his feet wet. The Fohlen 's penetrable attack will likely pull him out of position, which will require him to rekindle some of the fullback skills he has used for the Germany national team.
Usually a young, dynamic front, Schalke's attacking midfield will have a hobble in its step. Kevin-Prince Boateng and Julian Draxler could play despite their injuries, but they will be hard pressed to put in a good performance.
Matip and Santana's impairment leave Schalke without a lot of defensive depth, meaning Ayhan, who has dealt with muscle soreness himself, will need to move centrally. To make matters worse, Huntelaar and Meyer both went under the weather, although the duo practiced earlier this week and should be well enough to play at the weekend.
Korb's illness will keep him off of 'Gladbach's team sheet, but he will be the only absence from Lucien Favre's bullpen this weekend. Listings via LiveSoccerTV. Cinderella Stories View team list.
