Al-Dakhil in positive spirits after returning to Stuttgart training | OneFootball

“It feels great to be back on the pitch,” said the Belgian, who has made just five appearances for Stuttgart in the Bundesliga since his summer arrival from Burnley.

“After my first injury, I had to work for a long time, unfortunately, my second injury also took a little longer than planned. The most important thing is that I'm back now and can train with the boys. I am very happy about that.”

“Training was intense today, I feel good. Let's see when I can be used again,” said Al-Dakhil, who is desperate to repay the VfB Stuttgart faithful for their support this season: “It's always special how our fans stand behind us. That's a great feeling. It gives us a push when they are there. We are very happy to have them, we want to make them happy and get three points.”

Ahead of his 23rd birthday on Thursday, Al-Dakhil smiled in regards to three points being a perfect birthday present despite the celebrations being interrupted.

“That would be great, I'm always very happy to be able to train as I also missed sessions. For me, it is no problem to train every day. I will celebrate my birthday with my wife and my brother. My family is coming at the weekend, a little belated birthday present for me."

With Al-Dakhil returning to the fold, the Belgian is in contention for a start this weekend after Finn Jeltsch picked up a fifth yellow card of the season against Bayern München on Friday evening, earning a subsequent suspension.