Dortmund to increase Karetsas playing time 'step by step'

Borussia Dortmund won't rush Konstantinos Karetsas and the midfielder is set to be gradually brought back into action following his minutes of play against Bayern Munich at the weekend.

Karetsas, who has just recovered from a ligament injury, is not expected to be in the starting line-up for the Champions League clash against Real Betis on Wednesday and his playing time will be increased "step by step," coach Niko Kovac said.

Except for the long-term injured players, Kovac has a full roster to draw from.

"It's always nice to have so many players on the practice field. That means everyone is fit and ready to play," he said in a news conference on Tuesday.

"Tomorrow, there's only one direction: We want to win this thing!" he added.

Dortmund took a point from the game in Munich and remain tied with Bayern at the top of the Bundesliga table, but in second place due to goal difference.

Despite the tight schedule, with seven games in the last three weeks, goalkeeper Gregor Kobel believes the squad is in good physical shape.

"Based on how I see the team and how I feel myself, I have to say: We're all at a very, very high athletic level. We feel good and are ready to perform every few days," Kobel said.