Aubameyang back in Dortmund fold pre-Spurs
Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is expected to return to contention for Tuesday's crucial Champions League clash with Tottenham after a club-imposed suspension.
Reports have suggested that Aubameyang's partying during the international break and his decision to film an unauthorised video on club premises with a freestyle footballer led to Peter Bosz punishing his star striker ahead of Friday's match with Stuttgart.
Dortmund lost 2-1 at the Mercedes-Benz Arena as their slump in form took in a fifth Bundesliga game in succession without victory.
That run has mirrored Aubameyang's own lack of form – he has 15 goals for the season, but none in his last five games across all competitions.
And chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke says the Gabon international will come in from the cold when Dortmund host Tottenham, when Bosz's men require a victory if they are to keep their slim hopes of reaching the last 16 alive.
Watzke told Eurosport: "A squad needs rules and, every now and then, you have to sharpen your senses. The decision is up to Peter Bosz and the coach has complete support from all sides.
<script></script>We Shared a funny moment Today, really happy to met you and your team @seanfreestyle !!!! was so great ? #Repost @seanfreestyle (@get_repost) ??? WHAT A MAN Video soon ! Tag someone who like this player ______ I had the privilege to film with MISTER @aubameyang97 ! So peace, so humble and so much talented ! We film at his training center in @bvb09 ! Thanks man , I never though a football player will take the time like you did mate ____ Trop bonne expérience avec ce joueur de classe mondial Mais aussi quel bonne surprise de voir l'humilité, la gentillesse et surtout le talent de ce gars ! MERCI À TOI !! #aubameyang #seangarnier
"Auba is still a great guy. He will be back to normal on Tuesday. But he has no special rights – you have seen that again."
Watzke firmly ruled out any prospect that the disciplinary measures could prompt Dortmund into a January sale of their prized asset.
"It's not about selling a player, that is complete nonsense," he said. "But you have to sanction things. It's like a family, you have to step in at some point. But he is our player and remains our player."