Schalke 04 boss Roberto Di Matteo is counting on Kevin-Prince Boateng's recent form to secure positive results at FC Cologne and qualify for next season's Europa League. 

Di Matteo had not selected the midfielder after he flopped in the defeat against BVB Dortmund in late February.

But the former AC Milan star regained his lost form, providing two assists in the 3-2 win over VfL Stuttgart last weekend.

Schalke have already missed out on a Champions League slot for next season and have targeted qualifying for the Europa League.

The former Chelsea boss - Di Matteo admits Boateng would be crucial at the dying embers of the season for the Royal Blues.

"He has always professionally acted. I am pleased for him that he was decisive against Stuttgart. He owns on Sunday. very good odds on a bet," he said.

Boateng has started just 10 games in the entire season for Schalke without scoring in a total of 17 appearances but Di Matteo believes he can steer his side to an European spot.

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