GERMANY v ARGENTINA:GERMANY COACH Joachim Loew will be without many of the players in action during his side's disappointing Euro 2012 campaign for this evening's glamour friendly against Argentina in Frankfurt.
Germany have been drawn in the same group as the Republic of Ireland for the World Cup 2014 qualifying campaign, with the opening game between the sides at the Aviva Stadium on October 12th.
Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer was a late withdrawal from the squad with the Borussia Moenchengladbach netminder being drafted in, but Lowe is expected to start Hanover’s Ron-Robert Zieler.
The Arsenal duo of Per Mertesacker and new signing Lukas Podolski remain in London for the start of the Premier League season, with Loew naming just one recognised striker in Miroslav Klose.
Loew admitted that the 34-year-old Lazio forward remains a big part of his plans for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
“I dont see any age limit for him,” said Loew. “If Miro is in good physical shape, he is one of the world’s best strikers, I will plan with him over the next two years.”
Klose, who has scored 64 goals in 121 internationals, said he intended to make Brazil his fourth and final World Cup.
“If I remain healthy and keep performing, I would like to end my national team career at the 2014 World Cup,” he said.
Argentina have named a strong squad including Lionel Messi for tonight’s game, with Newcastle United defender Fabricio Coloccini recalled after a three-year absence.
