Ramy Bensebaini has moved closer to a return for Borussia Dortmund after completing his first training session with the team since suffering a rib injury two weeks ago.
The Algeria international joined his teammates in group training on Thursday as he stepped up his recovery from the rib bruise that has kept him out of action.
Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac confirmed Bensebaini’s return to team training during his pre-match press conference, but stressed that the session was conducted at a low intensity and involved very little physical contact.
“Ramy trained with the squad for the first time today,” Kovac said.
The coach, however, warned that the session should not be viewed as confirmation that the 31-year-old is ready to return to competitive action.
Bensebaini’s availability for Saturday’s Bundesliga meeting with Hoffenheim therefore remains uncertain. While his return to group training represents a positive development, Kovac believes the defender still has significant ground to cover before being considered fully match-fit.
“He is obviously far away from Bundesliga football,” Kovac added, highlighting the cautious approach being taken by Dortmund as the defender completes his recovery.
A decision on whether Bensebaini will be included in the squad for the weekend will be made after Friday’s training session.
“We will decide tomorrow to what extent he is an option for the weekend,” Kovac explained.
The Algerian has been an important option for Dortmund at left-back, but the club are unlikely to rush him back before he is ready for the physical demands of Bundesliga football.
His participation in Thursday’s session nevertheless provides encouragement for Dortmund, with the defender now entering the final stages of his recovery.
The extent of Bensebaini’s involvement in Friday’s training will determine whether he has any chance of featuring against Hoffenheim or whether his comeback will be delayed further.
