Bayer Leverkusen coach provides fitness update on Nathan Tella before Gladbach clash

Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand provided a positive update on the fitness of Nathan Tella before his side's Bundesliga clash against Borussia Mönchengladbach.

Tella was not called up for Leverkusen's UEFA Champions League opener against FC Copenhagen due to a knock he suffered to the knee in the 3-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt on September 12.

Hjulmand assured ahead of the trip to Copenhagen that the winger’s setback was only a short-term concern.

His comments during Friday's press conference suggest that Tella is edging closer to a return to action.

The Super Eagles star has started the season in good form, with back-to-back assists in the German top-flight before his spell on the sidelines.

In quotes relayed by Liga Insider, Hjulmand stated: "We’re optimistic that he’ll be okay".

He added that a definitive decision on Tella's participation would be made on Saturday after the team's training session. 

Bayer Leverkusen would receive a major lift should Tella be passed fit to face Monchengladbach.

The former Arsenal youth teamer has been a key player in the new season, featuring from the outset in every match for Die Werkself prior to his injury.

Tella was named in Nigeria's provisional squad for this month's 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa but did not crack the final list.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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