Kleindienst Returns to Action Amid Team Developments

In a recent pre-match press conference, Borussia Mönchengladbach head coach Eugen Polanski indicated that it was time for the long-injured captain Tim Kleindienst to make his return to the field. Polanski expressed that he was unconcerned about the opinions of the club’s medical staff, emphasizing the importance of Kleindienst stepping onto a Bundesliga pitch once again.

Kleindienst’s return was executed in the most cautious manner possible. The 30-year-old striker substituted into the match against his former club, 1. FC Heidenheim, during the dying moments of the game, entering at the 90+1 minute mark of second-half injury time. Despite the limited time, he managed to touch the ball four times.

“Just being back on the pitch is a positive thing,” Kleindienst commented in the mixed zone afterwards. “I thank the Heidenheim fans for the applause. I know it’s a bit cheesy, but it touched me deeply.”

Kleindienst is aware that it will take time before he can participate in matches for extended periods, following his major knee surgery. Additionally, there have been unexpected developments regarding a teammate he has not played with since late last spring.

Haris Tabakovic, on loan from Hoffenheim and initially viewed as a potential liability, faced criticism after two poor performances in his first matches. However, the Bosnian international quickly turned his fortunes around and began capitalizing on scoring chances. Tabakovic scored again in the recent victory, bringing his tally to seven league goals this season, placing him behind only England’s Harry Kane and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Jonathan Burkardt.

Kleindienst expressed his admiration for Tabakovic in his post-match comments, stating, “Haris is doing an amazing job. I hope he can ride this wave and keep it up. I need another month-and-a-half to two months. I’m sure I’ll be coming on as a substitute a few times at first. Competitive football is tough. There are still a few things I need to work on. But I have no problem coming off the bench at the moment.”