“Erling Haaland is an absolute machine” – Marco Reus heaps praise on Borussia Dortmund striker

Marco Reus has called Erling Haaland an “absolute machine” after the striker’s brace led Borussia Dortmund to a 4-0 win over Schalke 04 on Saturday. Haaland netted two goals against Schalke, including a stunning scissor kick in the first half, to take his tally for the season to 27 goals in just 25 appearances across all competition.

Speaking after the Revierderby win, the Borussia Dortmund captain lauded the 20 year old’s hunger for goals and determination.

"“Erling is an absolute machine. He is very hungry for goals, you can see that in every game. His positive energy on the pitch pushes all of us. He’s almost unstoppable when he’s on a roll. We hope he continues like this.”"

Reus also spoke about the importance of defeating Schalke 04, but added that the Black and Yellows must now build on the win and go on a winning run if they are to finish in the top four this season. “We have to continue to use this momentum” Reus said. “We’ve talked for a long time about needing a run, we have to keep at it in the next few weeks. We’re not out of the woods yet.”

Defeat to Borussia Dortmund left Schalke rooted to the bottom of the table. They have won just one league game so far this season, and find themselves eight points behind second bottom Mainz 05. And Reus had his say on the troubles of Borussia Dortmund’s arch-rivals.

"“For us players and our fans, it would be a shame if that (relegation) were to happen. We live off this explosive atmosphere, and so does the league. If I could choose, I would let them stay in the league. Hope dies last, but we can’t influence things either.”"

“We wanted to make a statement” – Emre Can delighted with Borussia Dortmund’s Revierderby win

Emre Can, who filled in at centre-back in the absence of the injured Manuel Akanji, said that Borussia Dortmund wanted to put down a marker by defeating rivals Schalke 04.

"“We wanted to make a statement. Everyone knows what this game means to the fans. This is perhaps the most important game of the season for them. We just wanted to get the three points. We fought well and deservedly got the victory.”“We can’t let up, we have to show that in every game. Then hopefully we can still have a successful season.”"

The German international also wished Schalke well for the rest of the season, saying that it would be a shame if there was to be no derby between the two Ruhr rivals next season.

"“I wish them all the best. They are a big club,” Can said. “It would be a shame for the Ruhr district if there were no derby anymore. I hope they stay in the league.”"

With only 12 games to go before the end of the season, time is clearly running out for Schalke as they look to avoid relegation from the Bundesliga.