Emre Can: Players are suffering due to fan protests against the DFL

Emre Can has admitted that delays to Bundesliga matches caused by fan protests against the DFL are hurting the players and their rhythm.

Borussia Dortmund endured a frustrating afternoon on Saturday as they could only manage a 1-1 draw against VfL Wolfsburg. Adding to the players' frustrations was the start-stop nature of the game, as both sets of fans comandeered proceedings time and time again by throwing tennis balls onto the pitch.

The referee had to stop play every time balls were thrown onto the pitch, and 20 minutes of time was added on across the two halves as a result. The fans were once again protesting the DFL's decision to bring in foreign investments in the Bundesliga.

Emre Can lamented the fan protests and said that the multiple stoppages in play cause the players' rhythm to break. The BVB captain added that he hopes the protests can stop soon. In an interview with Sky Sport, Can said, "We players have to accept these interruptions even if it is not easy. We have to be honest: As players, we are suffering from it. It's not easy as it makes you lose your rhythm. Football wouldn't be what it is without the fans. Everyone knows that. That's why I hope it comes to an end soon."

Protests have been ongoing across the top two divisions of German football in recent weeks, and are not expected to stop until a resolution can be reached with the DFL.