Bayer Leverkusen's dwindling hopes of defending their Bundesliga title must not be derailed again by promoted Holstein Kiel, coach Xabi Alonso said on Friday. October's 2-2 home draw with Kiel was an early blow to Leverkusen and Bayern Munich have gone on to establish an eight-point lead at the top.

Bayer Leverkusen forward Nathan Tella is a doubt for their Bundesliga game at strugglers Holstein Kiel this weekend, coach Xabi Alonso said on Friday, with the reigning champions desperate to close the gap to leaders Bayern Munich.

Nathan Tella is doubtful for Bayer Leverkusen's away game against Holstein Kiel on Saturday.At his pre-match press conference on Friday, head coach Xabi Alonso said a decision will be made on the