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26.08.2016Bayer 04

Werkself five in Germany squad

Germany coach Joachim Löw has called up five Bayer 04 pros for the two international fixtures against Finland in Mönchengladbach on 31 August and against Norway in Oslo in the World Cup qualifier on 4 September. The European Championship duo Bernd Leno and Jonathan Tah are joined by Julian Brandt, Karim Bellarabi and Kevin Volland.
© Bayer 04 Leverkusen Fussball GmbH

Löw has selected 24 players, including Max Meyer, Julian Brandt and Niklas Süle who won silver medals a week ago at Rio 2016. Commenting on the trio, Löw said : “Max Meyer and Julian Brandt have already been with us and we wanted to get to know Niklas Süle. The three youngsters earned their call-ups through their very good performances. I think they see the call-up as motivation and inspiration to produce consistent performances. With players like them we are looking to take the next step in their development. They have great potential. As a general rule: The door to the national side is open. I’m sure other players will get their chance in the coming months.”

For Karim Bellarabi and Kevin Volland this represents a return to the Germany squad after missing out on Euro 2016.

Next Wednesday’s international against Finland will be the final international appearance for Bastian Schweinsteiger. The captain announced his international retirement a few days after the Euros and the game against the Scandinavians will be cap number 121 for the 32-year-old. The game in Mönchengladbach was also supposed to present a chance for Lukas Podolski to bid farewell on the international stage. Due to injury, Podolski will have to catch up at a later date.

© Bayer 04 Leverkusen Fussball GmbH

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