Youssoufa Moukoko back in training as Borussia Dortmund step up preparations for Leipzig clash

Borussia Dortmund have received a big boost ahead of this weekend’s clash against RB Leipzig, with Youssoufa Moukoko back in team training.

Youssoufa Moukoko made his return to team training as Edin Terzic put the Borussia Dortmund squad through their paces on Wednesday. The 16 year old has missed Borussia Dortmund’s last two games with a knee injury, but should be back in the squad for this weekend’s topspiel against RB Leipzig.

Borussia Dortmund II players Steffen Tigges, Ansgar Knauff and Tobias Raschl also trained with the first-team on Wednesday. Tigges has played in each of the last two games for the first-team, and will be hoping to make the bench against RB Leipzig as well.

Jude Bellingham (foot), Thorgan Hazard (muscle) and Marcel Schmelzer (rehab after surgery) remain out for Borussia Dortmund, and look set to miss Saturday’s crunch clash.

Sebastian Kehl calls for better performances from Borussia Dortmund players

Head of licensed players’ department Sebastian Kehl wants to see better performances from every Borussia Dortmund player going into their tough run of matches against RB Leipzig, Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Mönchengladbach.

"“We have higher demands of ourselves and everyone knows that we have to do more. We have to create a new performance culture on the pitch.”"

Kehl believes that the Black and Yellows can take a significant step forward by getting good results against their top four rivals.

"“We now have every opportunity with the games against Leipzig, Leverkusen and Mönchengladbach. Of course, we also have to beat Mainz at home. But we have every opportunity. We have our direct rivals against us and can make a significant step forward.”"

Kehl also said that Borussia Dortmund do not have any plans for the January transfer window at the moment, but added that they are waiting for any possible developments.

"“We are thinking about and preparing for different scenarios. At the moment, there is nothing planned in any way. There are also no talks going on at the moment. It is very quiet, although we know that the transfer window will be open until February. That’s why we’re waiting for any developments, of course.”"

Borussia Dortmund are currently fourth in the Bundesliga standings, eight points behind league leaders Bayern Munich and six behind RB Leipzig, who they play on Saturday.