Hertha Berlin coach Falko Gotz was full of praise for youngster Kevin Boateng after his team's disappointing weekend draw with Borussia Monchengladbach.

The capital city outfit lost ground on Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich after failing to bag a win against the Foals, but Gotz was quick to compliment the 19-year-old, who was making his first start for Hertha.

"Kevin is a full-blooded footballer - a rough diamond which still needs to be cut here and there," he said.

"He has already come a long way as far as his touch on the ball, his speed and his ability to anticipate situations is concerned. He is going about things just the right way to find his permanent place in the team."

The Hertha boss received some bad news after Sunday's match after learning that Dick van Burik and Pal Dardai sustained knocks and are now unavailable for selection for Wednesday's Uefa Cup clash with Sampdoria.

The pair join Marko Pantelic and Oliver Schroder on the sidelines although Gotz will be able to call on Brazilian international Gilberto who has recovered in time to play.