Emre Can responds after being left out of Borussia Dortmund starting XI

Emre Can has commented on being left out of the Borussia Dortmund starting XI for the Bundesliga clash against FC Heidenheim on Friday.

Nuri Sahin made the surprise decision to drop Emre Can from the starting XI as Borussia Dortmund went up against FC Heidenheim in the Bundesliga. The decision paid dividends, though, as the Black and Yellows delivered a strong attacking performance en route to a 4-2 win.

"The season is still very young" - Emre Can after being left out of Borussia Dortmund starting XI

Can came off the bench and got on the score-sheet, firing home his penalty in second-half stoppage time to make sure of the three points. After the game, the Borussia Dortmund captain spoke about being left out of the starting XI.

"It's never nice. Every footballer wants to play every game, me too. I accept it. The team comes first and is above everything. I try to give it my all in training and when I come on. The season is still very young and there are still important games to come in which I will start, so it's not a problem."

The midfielder also spoke about his goal celebration which saw him place a finger on his lips and do the shush sign, but refused to reveal who the celebration was aimed at. "It wasn't directed at the coach, in case anyone thought that, absolutely not. The people who it was aimed at know. It wasn't directed at the real fans."

Emre Can has been the subject of plenty of criticism from Borussia Dortmund supporters, who have at times been left frustrated by his lack of impact in the final third and his propensity to lose possession in key areas. The 30 year old will hope to return to the BVB starting XI on Wednesday for the UEFA Champions League clash against Club Brugge.