Sven steps in for Saxon's long-time drummer Nigel Glockler, who was recently forced to undergo surgeries for a brain aneurysm.

Saxon's official statement about Nigel's temporary replacement reads as follows:

"Just to let you all know, for all these [upcoming] shows [in the UK] Nigel Glockler will be at the shows to meet and great the VIP ticket holders! Sven Dirkschneider will be drumming all these show as Nigel will not be 100% fit by then but he will be at the shows! (...) See you on tour!"

Sven is son of Accept and U.D.O. singer Udo Dirkschneider, and works as U.D.O.'s drum tec in the summer.