Tobias Weis celebrates comeback

The 24-year-old came on as a 67th-minute substitute for the injured Maicosuel, slotting into a more defensive role and trying to hit the opponents on the counter. Coach Ralf Rangnick was pleased with his performance: "It was important for him, and the team, to get back playing again. He gives us another option on the field and if he takes things step by step in training this week then it could be that he starts against Mainz," said the Hoffenheim supremo. According to Weis, his knee is now stable and he suffered no adverse reactions during the match: "Now I can finally give it 100 per cent."

Weis has made seven appearances in the Bundesliga this season but had to undergo surgery in December as a result of a persistent knee injury. He returned to training last week having previously spent three and a half weeks on a rehabilitation programme with physiotherapist Klaus Eder at the beginning of January. "It's been a difficult six months but it's nice to be back in training with the team," said Weis.