Dortmund coach Niko Kovac will have to do without three established players in the Champions League match against Inter Milan. A departure has an impact.

Borussia Dortmund will once again have to do without defender Niklas Süle and midfielder Marcel Sabitzer in the Champions League match against Inter Milan. Neither player took part in coach Niko Kovac’s final training session on the day before the match (Wednesday, 9 p.m./DAZN).

“Niki has a back problem,” Kovac said of the 30-year-old. Sabitzer is suffering from calf problems. Left-back Daniel Svensson is suspended after being sent off in the 2-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur in the last Champions League game. Another defender, Aarón Anselmino, has left BVB at short notice. Chelsea FC activated a clause in his loan deal and brought the 20-year-old back to England. Kovac reported an emotional farewell. “It was very sad for us, this occasion, this moment,” he said. “A great guy. A top-notch person with a star. A superb player.” On the last matchday of the Champions League group stage, Dortmund want to secure their place in the round of 16. A draw would definitely be enough to do that. It’s also about putting themselves in a good position for the decisive games. If BVB can hold on to at least 16th place, the Westphalians would play the second leg at home. But there is also a lot at stake for Dortmund’s opponents. Milan, who are 14th in the table and have already secured their place in the playoffs, are only one point away from a direct spot in the round of 16. “We’re playing against a great team tomorrow. We have to defend well, but also take advantage of the opportunities we get up front,” said Kovac, who knows what to expect.

BVB want to take advantage of home advantage against the 2010 Champions League winners. “This stadium has immense power, a great energy that we want to use tomorrow,” explained the Black and Yellows’ head coach.