Bayer Leverkusen’s Kevin Volland hasn’t played since mid-February because of a torn ligament in his ankle, but could take the field against SC Freiburg Saturday for the first time in months. Volland isn’t in the starting lineup, but has been made available as a substitute after going through training this week.
Kai Havertz has filled in well as a #9 during Volland’s absence, but the return of the leading goal scorer could put Leverkusen over the top as it pushes to make a run at a Bundesliga title.
Leverkusen enters Friday’s match with 53 points and sits in fifth place in the standings. Borussia Mönchengladbach has a narrow lead in fourth thanks to goal differential while RB Leipzig, Borussia Dortmund, and Bayern Munich make up the top three.
Havertz’s four goals since May 16th have been huge for Leverkusen, but he wasn’t enough to power past Wolfsburg on Tuesday. Attaining more offensive firepower will be key to improving Leverkusen’s slim chances of catching Bayern — which sits atop the table with 67 points.