The atmosphere at FC Bayern was as bright and upbeat as the sunshine beaming down from a cloudless sky in Munich on Thursday when the first-team squad started preparing for the encounter with Gladbach, although no-one is under any illusions as to the severity of Saturday's challenge. "It'll be the toughest away match of the season," believes Robert Lewandowski, who proved he has not lost his nose for goal in a vigorous training session.

The same goes for Thomas Müller, who reminded the midday press conference of the most recent duels with Borussia. "Gladbach have always been very tough opponents in the last few years. It's never been a walkover," the Bavarian native warned. The stats confirm Thomas's analysis: the Reds have won three and lost three of the most recent encounters with two draws, so the sides are obviously evenly-matched.

Müller: We'll stay focused

The challenge has not become easier since André Schubert took over in Mönchengladbach. The new head coach has guided his troops back towards the top end of the table, even though Borussia were the bottom club on no points after Matchday 5. Schubert has yet to be beaten in the league in nine games as Foals' boss. "But their streak is actually good for us," commented Müller: "the longer a run continues, the likelier it is to end. We're confident we can put an end to their run."

If FCB prevail at Borussia Park they will definitely be top of the standings during the winter break. But Müller puts no value to the so-called 'autumn championship.' "It's not a title, but only the status quo before Christmas," the forward commented. Instead, Müller issued a warning: "We have to stay highly focused and take all the points on offer to us."