Borussia Dortmund youngster Mathis Albert has earned praise from head coach Niko Kovač after continuing his impressive pre-season with a strong showing on the club's tour of Japan. Albert, 17, has caught the eye throughout pre-season after making his Bundesliga debut for Dortmund late last term. Kovač's demanding style places a premium on work rate and defensive discipline, and the teenager believes those higher standards have significantly improved his game. There are higher demands, such as the work rate and the space that needs to be covered, especially in the new, more central position. About the players 41 Mathis Albert Striker Borussia DortmundHaving already made a strong impression on Kovač this summer, Albert now has further opportunities to strengthen his case.