Loew to blood future stars for Sweden

Germany coach Joachim Loew has called a total of four uncapped players from Bundesliga leaders Borussia Dortmund and second-placed Mainz into his squad for next Wednesday’s friendly in Sweden.

Mainz midfielders Lewis Holtby and Andre Schuerrle, both 20, are included as are Dortmund defender Marcel Schmelzer, 22, and 18-year-old midfielder Mario Goetze. The quartet look set to make their debuts in Gothenburg.

Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has been included in the side and looks the most likely to captain Loew’s young lions.

Loew has left a host of senior players out including striker Miroslav Klose, defender Philipp Lahm, who captained Germany to third at the World Cup, midfielder Thomas Mueller and playmaker Mesut Ozil.

Both Dortmund pair Kevin Grosskreutz, a 22-year-old striker, and 21-year-old defender Mats Hummels are included having won just one cap in May’s friendly win over minnows Malta.

“The game in Sweden is a great way to give a few fringe players their chance to show they can play within our team’s philosophy,” said Loew.

“They have all earned their chances by convincing and consistent performances in the Bundesliga and may in the near future make the leap to the international level.

“It will give those players a chance to train with the team and our plan is that some of them will play in Gothenburg and win their first cap.”

Schuerrle and Holtby have impressed for Mainz this season while teenager Goetze has scored two goals for Bundesliga leaders Dortmund and looked dangerous in front of goal.

Loew has said as long as the players had the ability, they were eligible to play and with a friendly against Italy scheduled for February 9 next year, any players who impress are likely to earn their chance against the Azzurri.

“A positive step for us is to introduce several players to the national team and we want to go into the winter break with a good performance,” said Loew.

“We have the classic match against Italy in February which will be an interesting challenge for us.”