Robben set for Bayern Munich bench again

The Netherlands international, who has struggled for form and fitness of late, was an unused substitute for the midweek DFB-Pokal quarter-final success at Stuttgart

By Mark Doyle

Arjen Robben, FC Bayern München
Bongarts
Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes has intimated that Arjen Robben is unlikely to be recalled to the starting line-up for Saturday's Bundesliga clash with Kaiserslautern.

The Netherlands international, who has struggled for form and fitness of late, was left on the bench for the duration of the midweek DFB-Pokal quarter-final success at Stuttgart.

When asked if Robben would be restored to the starting XI for the visit of struggling Kaiserslautern, Heynckes indicated that the winger must first prove that he is back to his very best.

"Yesterday, as always, Arjen trained very well and was highly motivated," the 66-year-old German told reporters at his pre-game press conference on Friday.

"If he is in absolute peak form, he is a world class player ..."

Heynckes was more open when it came to the base of his midfield, revealing that David Alaba, who came on for the injured Bastian Schweinsteiger in midweek, will continue alongside Luis Gustavo Dias in the engine room.

"I have much confidence in David," the former West Germany forward said. "He brings the clean dynamic we need.

"In the two defensive [midfield] positions I have no need to change anything."

Bayern go into the game second in the Bundesliga standings, two points adrift of leaders Borussia Dortmund.

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"I have much confidence in David. He brings the clean dynamic we need. In the two defensive [midfield] positions I have no need to change anything."



 
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