Niko Kovac hails stand-in Dortmund captain Waldemar Anton | OneFootball

Niko Kovac has hailed stand-in captain Waldemar Anton as Borussia Dortmund prepare to host Villarreal in Tuesday's Champions League league phase opener. Goal.com reports that Kovac has underlined the defender's leadership with Emre Can sidelined by an ACL injury.

Anton, 30, will lead Dortmund again at Signal Iduna Park, having worn the armband in every competitive match this season. Kovac said handing him the role was an easy call given his influence in the dressing room.

The coach described Anton as a player who leads by example and refuses to give in, qualities he believes set the standard for younger team-mates. Kovac added that the centre-back was effectively a captain last season even without the band, such is his presence.

Anton said the anticipation is huge for a Champions League night at home and stressed the squad want to move on from last season. He outlined a determination to take the first step and claim three points in front of their supporters.

Dortmund thrashed Villarreal 4-0 at Westfalenstadion last season, generating 4.03 xG from 13 attempts. The visitors have lost five consecutive Champions League away games without scoring, and a fast start to the league phase is viewed as imperative before the schedule intensifies.

Source: Goal.com

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