Gladbach begin training week without Hofmann and Elvedi
Borussia Mönchengladbach's training week began absent two of its regular starters. Jonas Hofmann and Nico Elvedi remained off the pitch as Marco Rose's foals prepare for a vitally important showdown against Hertha BSC on the weekend.
The fight for Europe isn't over for Marco Rose and Borussia Mönchengladbach. Following a 2-1 comeback win over Freiburg this weekend, the foals stand in ninth place; four points off an automatic Europa League spot with seven fixtures remaining.
The squad's absentee list nevertheless began the week where it started. German national team midfielder Jonas Hofmann looks to be unavailable for several days yet as he continues to recover from a bout of COVID.
Trainer Marco Rose reported last week that the 28-year-old was experiencing symptoms and would not be rushed back. It can safely be assumed that center back Nico Elvedi, who had to be withdrawn from the squad after pulling a calf muscle last week.
Elvedi's injury has, after a long wait, finally opened the door for 20-year-old defensive prospect Louis Jordan Beyer. After playing well on the defensive line in round 23, Beyer again deputized well this past weekend.
Rose opted for Beyer on the back-three against Freiburg despite having Tony Jantschke available for defensive service. The Gladbach gaffer also stuck with the youngster through some early difficulties and Beyer played increasingly stable as the game wore on.