Bayer Leverkusen travel to Azerbaijan later this evening as they look to face Qarabağ FK in the first leg of their Europa League round of 16 tie.
It is understood that Xabi Alonso will make at least one change from the Leverkusen side that overcame FC Köln on Sunday afternoon.
The Spaniard has confirmed that Matěj Kovář will resume his role as Die Werkself’s cup goalkeeper, having featured in all the club’s Europa League and DFB-Pokal fixtures this season, bar one. This would, therefore, see Lukas Hradecky drop to the bench.
However, while Alonso has refused to comment on any other possible changes, it is expected that Borja Iglesias will receive his second start for the Bundesliga leaders.
As well as this, in defence, Edmond Tapsoba and Odilon Kossounou could return to the starting XI to make up Leverkusen’s back three alongside Jonathan Tah.
Ahead of this game, it must be remembered that Leverkusen remain unbeaten in all competitions this campaign, and it is a record that Alonso will certainly aim to maintain.
Predicted Bayer Leverkusen XI vs Qarabağ FK
Matěj Kovář – Edmond Tapsoba, Jonathan Tah, Odilon Kossounou – Jeremie Frimpong, Robert Andrich, Granit Xhaka, Grimaldo – Amine Adli, Florian Wirtz – Borja Iglesias.
GGFN | Will Shopland
