Huntelaar targeting Hamburg return

Klass-Jan Huntelaar has designs on making a return to the starting line-up for Schalke after six weeks out through injury.

The Dutch striker has not played since netting in the 2-1 Ruhr derby win over Borussia Dortmund in early March but is hopeful of
featuring in Sunday’s home clash with Hamburg.

Jens Keller’s side are two points clear of the chasing pack in the final UEFA
Champions League spot and Huntelaar – who has scored 11 times this term – is looking
to help them tighten their grip on a top-four berth.

“For the first training session that was very good, I have had no problems with the knee. I am optimistic for Sunday,” the 29-year-old told German newspaper Bild.

Hamburg are one of a clutch of teams eager to secure a
surprise place in the top four, and Schalke captain Benedikt Howedes is eager
for Huntelaar to return to the fray.

He said: “We were too inconsistent in front of goal
in Frankfurt. Six big opportunities missed.

“Klaas-Jan is always good for a goal. He is a
weapon. Even if it only was as a substitute, we would do well.”