Gladbach's Polanski believes Kleindienst still has World Cup chances

Borussia Moenchengladbach coach Eugen Polanski reacts from the touchline during the German Bundesliga soccer match between RB Leipzig and Borussia Moenchengladbach at Red Bull Arena. Jan Woitas/dpa

Despite Tim Kleindienst's long injury lay-off, Borussia Mönchengladbach coach Eugen Polanski still believes the forward has a chance to be named to Germany's World Cup squad.

Polanski added that he's in contact with the German Football Federation (DFB) regarding Kleindienst's situation.

"I know a few people on the DFB coaching staff. We've already discussed the possibilities a bit and what Tim's potential role might be," the coach said.

"Ultimately, it's up to the national team coach, and Tim is the one who has to deliver, but he's also the one who might be able to help us. Accordingly, it's extremely positive for us at Borussia Mönchengladbach and for me as a coach that the situation is as it is, and that Tim, in my opinion, has good reason to be hopeful," he added.

Kleindienst had good chances of becoming a regular name in the Germany squad, but two knee operations in May and December stopped his development. This season, he played only three games for Gladbach.

The team expects him to return for the penultimate Bundesliga game of the season against Augsburg or for the last game against .