According to Kicker, ahead of the "mini-derby" against Bayer Leverkusen, Köln coach René Wagner has more personnel options at his disposal, which will make for especially tough choices in attack.
Ragnar Ache was not even in the squad last week, missing the 0-0 draw against Schalke and both matches against 1. FC Union Berlin (a 5-0 cup win and a 1-1 league draw). Things will be different on Sunday: the Köln striker will be back in the matchday squad for the home game against Bayer Leverkusen.
René Wagner emphasized on Friday: "Ragnar Ache is definitely in better shape this week than last." He also hinted: "So he is an option for the squad. We'll see on Sunday how we ultimately decide." However, after five weeks out with injury, Ache is probably not fit enough to start.
For now, Ragnar Ache will be used as an impact substitute. Wagner said: "After an injury, it's normal that you can't go straight into the starting lineup after just one proper training session." Given the 28-year-old's injury history, he also stressed: "We have to be careful and take a prudent, systematic approach to bringing him back." Wagner hopes: "He will definitely be able to come off the bench and make an impact on the game."
Fellow striker Malek El Mala has been performing very well recently: the 21-year-old came off the bench in Berlin and scored the equalizer just seconds after coming on. For this reason, Malek El Mala will not be dropped from the squad and will be in the matchday squad alongside Ragnar Ache. Wagner stated clearly: "Malek has earned his place in the squad not only with his goal but also with his performances in training."
Therefore, compared to the match against 1. FC Union Berlin, Köln's attacking line is unlikely to change, with Said El Mala and Marius Bülter currently occupying the two forward positions. Since Malek El Mala and Ragnar Ache will both be on the bench, Wagner will have to leave one of the current attacking substitutes out of the squad. Wagner admitted: "We are facing a difficult decision." He must choose between Jan Thielmann, Luca Waldschmidt, and youngster Reigan Heskey, sending one of them to the stands. It is a tough call, and it will most likely fall on one of the two more established players.