Sahin wants to keep Füllkrug at Dortmund

Niclas Füllkrug has been linked with a move away from Borussia Dortmund, with AC Milan and Atletico Madrid among his reported suitors.

The arrival of Serhou Guirassy from Stuttgart has only added to the speculation surrounding Füllkrug's future, but Borussia Dortmund coach Nuri Sahin insists the 31-year-old is part of his plans.

"Füllkrug knows what I think about him. We had a lot of contact during the summer," Sahin told Sky Germany. 

“He knows how much I appreciate him.

“Niclas Füllkrug and Serhou Guirassy play a central role in my plans.” 

Sahin added that Füllkrug is important not only for his sporting qualities, but also as a leader. 

“A coaching staff alone cannot maintain the culture and standards of a team,” said Sahin. 

“It is the responsibility of the team, the top performers and leaders, to deliver on a daily basis. That is the foundation of our work. I expect Niclas Füllkrug and others to lead the way.”