Loew sees bright future for Gundogan

Germany coach Joachim Loew has hailed the development of Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan.

The 22-year-old replaced Sami Khedira late on during Germany’s 3-0 World Cup qualifying win in Kazakhstan on Friday, and will play instead of the suspended Bastian Schweinsteiger in Tuesday’s return fixture.

“Ilkay will play on Tuesday. He has made a huge step, not only at Dortmund, but also with us,” Loew told reporters on Monday.

“Against France, he filled in the position outstandingly, added to the pace and played the right passes.

“He has gained a lot of recognition and plays at a top level internationally. He has all the potential to be a world-class player.”

Loew also called for an improved showing from his side after being disappointed by their second half in Astana last week.

“During the second half in Kazakhstan, we took it a bit slower and almost paid for it. Subsequently, Kazakhstan were able to create chances,” he said.

“We will make the players visualise that we’re only able to play confidently if we maintain a high tempo and fulfill our tasks 100 per cent.”