Preview: Schalke 04 vs. Bayer Leverkusen

Bayer Leverkusen return to Bundesliga action against Schalke 04 on Saturday just days after suffering disappointment in the Champions League.

A spirited performance over two legs ended in frustration as Atletico Madrid booked their place in the quarter-finals with a penalty shootout victory in the Spanish capital on Tuesday night.

Rallying the troops following such a difficult away trip will be tough for Roger Schmidt, but he will be eager to produce a reaction from his squad as they aim to earn a place in next season's competition.

Leverkusen currently occupy fourth place, but with Schalke sitting one position and three points behind, there is no doubt that the meeting could be a decisive fixture for both sides this season.

Despite their European exit, Leverkusen head into the match in better form thanks to three successive league victories.

It's been a different story for Schalke in recent weeks, with Roberto Di Matteo's side only winning one of their last five games and the Italian will be aware that a result this weekend could be a vital turning point.

Julian Draxler and Jefferson Farfan have both stepped up their respective recoveries from injury this week, but neither will be ready for Saturday's game.

Doubts remain over the fitness of Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, while Ralf Fahrmann is still not ready to return to the squad.

Leverkusen could be without Lars Bender after he limped off in extra time against Atletico, but Stefan Kiessling is expected to be handed a recall in attack.

Schalke:

Form in Bundesliga: WLDLWD Form in all competitions: LDLWWD

Possible starting lineup: Wellenreuther, Howdes, Nastasic, Fuchs, Matip, Meyer, Hoger, Barnetta, Neustadter, Boateng, Huntelaar

Leverkusen:

Form in Bundesliga: LLDWWW Form in all competitions: WWWWWL

Possible starting lineup: Leno, Hilbert, Toprak, Spahic, Wendell, Castro, Rolfes, Bellarabi, Son, Calhanoglu, Kiessling

Sports Mole says: 1-1