Alonso confirms Wirtz is fit to start against Gladbach
Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Florian Wirtz is a candidate for the starting line-up after recovering from a long-term injury.
Florian Wirtz is once again a starting candidate for Bayer Leverkusen, having fully recovered from a cruciate ligament rupture.
Speaking ahead of Sunday's Bundesliga clash with Gladbach, Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso confirmed that the 19-year-old is fit enough for the starting line-up.
"We will see, but he is fit to play from the start," Alonso told reporters.
"'Flo' has improved our game between the lines, we have more opportunities. But we still have to play good football as a team to be successful.
"We need all the players, not just Florian."
Jeremie Frimpong was passed fit too, while Patrik Schick and Charles Aranguiz remain sidelined, but are "on a good way," according to Alonso.
"They have returned on the pitch, running and working individually with the ball. We have to be patient, but in the last week they have developed well," said Alonso.