Schalke: Ozan Kabak and 5 key players to watch against Leipzig

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MAINZ, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 16: (BILD ZEITUNG OUT) Michael Gregoritsch of FC Schalke 04 looks dejected during the Bundesliga match between 1. FSV Mainz 05 and FC Schalke 04 at Opel Arena on February 16, 2020 in Mainz, Germany. (Photo by DeFodi Images via Getty Images) /

ST Michael Gregoritsch

Schalke need more from Michael Gregoritsch. That much is obvious. The Austrian forward’s play has fallen off a cliff since his dream debut to start the Rückrunde against Borussia Mönchengladbach. Gregoritsch has lacked confidence, and his work rate has been suspect. He isn’t on the same wavelength as Benito Raman and Amine Harit, to the point where he is curtailing their effectiveness.

He will on a short leash on Saturday, as David Wagner has talented options off the bench – namely Ahmed Kutucu. Gregoritsch will be going up against a tough defense, with Dayot Upamecano playing sensational football in the center of it.

CM Weston McKennie

The replacement in the starting lineup for injured veteran wide midfielder Daniel Caligiuri, Weston McKennie has been one of the few bright spots in the Schalke lineup over the past couple of weeks in the midst of disappointing draws to SC Paderborn 07 and Mainz.

McKennie is one of the hardest working players in the entire league and can make an impact on either end of the pitch. He has the capability to put shots on target, make consistent passes, or start counterattacks after cutting out a pass from the opposition.

The American will be a tactical key for Wagner, and his nonstop running could be the X-Factor in an upset win for the home side.

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