VfL Bochum started the training week before the opening match against Hertha BSC. Coach Thomas Letsch had to do without two full-backs.

VfL Bochum returned from their winter training camp in Jerez, Spain on Saturday. On Tuesday, coach Thomas Letsch took to the training pitch at home for the first time, kicking off preparations for the opening match against Hertha BSC (Saturday, 21 January, 15:30). Two players did not take part in the match.

Konstantinos Stafylidis suffered a slight rib injury, Letsch said after the session. “It doesn’t look that great, to be honest.” The Greek will thus definitely not be available at the weekend.

Janko an option despite broken nose

The situation is different for a fellow full-back, who was also absent. “Saidy Janko has broken his nose. We’ll have to see if a small operation is necessary or if he needs a mask.” The injury happened in the last test match against FC Luzern.

Letsch, however, assumes that the 27-year-old will play against Hertha. Coming off the bench if at all in the Hinrunde, Janko had attracted attention during the preparation. This was also due to the fact that Cristian Gamboa, who had been the previous starter, was out with an abdominal muscle injury, but is now fit again.

“We have an exciting duel. Saidy has shown himself, that’s good, but no more and no less,” Letsch left open who will be given preference on the right side of defence on Saturday. In the last two test matches, however, VfL started with the same eleven – and Janko. “That’s why it doesn’t take much imagination for that to be a skeleton. “

Stafylidis only failure, Esser about to return

Personnel-wise, Letsch can otherwise draw from the full range. As a result, tough decisions await in terms of starting line-ups and squad places. “But that’s a situation I’d much rather have than the team lining up more or less on its own.”

Michael Esser will also rejoin the team this week. The second goalkeeper had injured himself in the training camp and had to go home early. He completed an individual programme and is expected back on the training pitch on Wednesday, Thursday at the latest.