Schalke coach Jens Keller will make a late decision on Kevin-Prince Boateng ahead of their derby against Borrusia Dortmund on Saturday due to his weak form.
Boateng, 27, missed the side’s first Bundesliga win of the season as the side coasted to a comfortable 3-0 win over Werder Bremen on Tuesday night due to suspension.
The Royal Blues were a masterclass without the Ghanaian international, prompting speculation coach Keller will stick with the same squad ahead of the game against Dortmund at the Veltins-Arena.
The injury-prone player is fit again but must do more to win the fans over following recent criticism over his performance.
Reports in the German media have been awashed with claims the former AC Milan star could be benched for the crucial tie with coach Jens Keller keeping his cards close to his chest.
“Let’s wait until Saturday,” Keller said of Boateng after Bremen’s win.
“It’s only a few more days. We’ll see whether he plays or not.”
Boateng has come under fire in recent times over his perceived dip in form with German legend Stefan Effenberg advocating for a bench role for him.