Match Previews

Leverkusen showing inconsistent form lately.... 9 goals conceded in last 4 games.... problems in defense.... Juan (k) out injured.... Haggui (r) and Ramelow (k) both look fit enough to play.... only 1 win from 13 games against English teams so far.... Bayer Leverkusen claimed a rather lucky 2-2 draw at home against Eintracht Frankfurt. The game showed their typical inconsistent face as Leverkusen combined both strong attacking play with bad defending which makes their recent games like a roller coaster ride. Striker Kiessling (r), who reclaimed his position upfront as a lone striker at the cost of Voronin (r), scored a vital equalizer deep into injury time. Leverkusen, who were down to 10 men after goalkeeper But (r) got sent off, could feel more than happy with the point in the end. There is little time as this upcoming Uefa Cup home game against Blackburn Rovers already awaits on Wednesday. Early team news is that both goalkeeper But (r) and midfielder Freier (r), who are suspended in the Bundesliga, will figure in this game. Worries though remain in defense as key defender Juan (k) remains out injured. Young defender Callsen-Bracker (sp) did a good job against Frankfurt and looks set to stay in defense, but Madouni (sp) played a very weak game was a constant risk factor at the back. Good news is that important defender Haggui (r) looks to be fit enough to play and should start the game. In midfield team captain Ramelow (k) made an early comeback from injury against Frankfurt. Ramelow (k), who was also rated doubtful, also looks to become fit enough to play despite not being 100%. His presence in the team is highly important which means that coach Skibbe is likely to field him. Good news is that other key midfielder Schneider (k), who also struggled with injury, looks fit enough to play. Upfront Kiessling (r) looks set to continue as a lone striker, which leaves a place on the bench for Voronin (r) as Skibbe will stick to his preferred 4-5-1 playing system. Bayer Leverkusen will be aiming to improve their bleak overall record against English teams when they host Blackburn Rovers as they only claimed 1 win from 13 games so far against English opponents.