Germany’s Mario Gomez has been ruled out of the rest of Euro 2016 with a thigh muscle injury, while Sami Khedira and Bastian Schweinsteiger are doubtful after being injured in Saturday’s quarter-final win over Italy.
Gomez, who scored two goals in Euro 2106 and is the team’s only out-and-out striker, tore a muscle fibre in his right thigh.
Khedira, who also missed their winning 2014 World Cup final through injury, was taken off in the 16th minute after overstretching during a challenge for the ball in Germany’s 6-5 victory on penalties over the Italians.
The 29-year-old had played in every match of the tournament so far as Germany eye a fourth continental title but like captain Schweinsteiger he is doubtful for the rest of the tournament.
Khedira suffered an adductor muscle injury, while Schweinsteiger stretched a ligament in his right knee.
Bitter
“It is very bitter when you lose key players at the crucial phase of a tournament,” said Germany coach Joachim Löw.“I am especially sorry for Mario who played a great tournament and helped the team not just with goals.
“This means we will have to face a new situation and find solutions. The quality of the squad is high and I have full confidence in my players.”
Germany will also be without suspended central defender Mats Hummels who was ruled out of the semi-final with a second yellow card on Saturday.
Outgoing Italy manager Antonio Conte was quick to praise his squad for their efforts.“Against a strong side, we demonstrated that this is a tough team and all our opponents respected us – and respected us a lot,” he said.
“The national team gives you emotion and stimuli and I hope this European Championship will leave a legacy of love for the shirts we were wearing.
“I think the biggest victory for me is having worked with this group of lads. From the kit men to the cooks – everybody who was part of this marvellous experience.
