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Dortmund out to extend unbeaten run

Playmaker Mario Gotze has returned to training after more than two months out with a groin injury and extended his contract to 2016 this week, but will not play against Stuttgart.

However, the 19-year-old Germany international's imminent return will only boost Dortmund's chances of a second successive league title.

"As things stand now everyone else is fit and ready for Stuttgart," said Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp, who will also be without injured Felipe Santana.

Gotze was key in last season's title run and had been outstanding until his injury in late January.

"We will need to reach our limits for the next four or five weeks," Nerlinger said. "That will be a mental as well as physical challenge. We are in the final stretch in all competitions and the team is motivated."