Lewandowski set for Munich return
glasgow — Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski is in line to face Borussia Dortmund in their top-of-the-table Bundesliga clash this weekend, after he watched his side clinch their place in the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday.
The Polish international missed the 2-1 Group B win over Celtic in Glasgow that saw the German champions reach the knock-out stage of Europe’s elite competition for the 10th successive season. Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes, undefeated in his fourth spell in charge of the German giants after replacing Carlo Ancelotti last month, was forced to field on-loan Real Madrid midfielder James Rodriguez up front with Thomas Mueller also missing out through injury.
However, the veteran tactician was confident Lewandowski would return to lead the line against Dortmund on Saturday as they travel to face their rivals, who are just three points behind them in the Bundesliga.
“Obviously it’s not my ideal choice to replace somebody up front with a midfield player but I had no choice,” Heynckes said.
“In my opinion the team did very well with the changes.
“But Lewandowski trained well today and seems fit. Hopefully all things being well he will
Lewandowski trained well today and seems fit. Hopefully all things being well he will play on Saturday Jupp Heynckes
play on Saturday.” Bayern, who made five changes for the match in Glasgow, faced a tough challenge against Celtic and only a Halloween horror show in the Hoops defence allowed them to take a 22nd-minute lead through Kingsley Coman.
The hosts responded positively and Callum McGregor’s 74thminute equaliser looked set to earn them a share of the points.
However, it took just over two minutes for Bayern to regain their lead with Javi Martinez bravely heading home the winner that keeps them three points behind Group B leaders Paris Saint-Germain. “We have to take into account the last few weeks and all the changes that have taken place,” Heynckes said of his side’s hardfought win. “The trainer changed and the training of the players has changed. It’s been difficult.
“We knew it would be difficult and challenging but we must compliment our opponents tonight.” he added.