Germany coach Joachim Loew has confirmed centre-back Per Mertesacker remains part of his plans for Euro 2012.
The 27-year-old recently sustained ankle ligament damage, and Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger recently stated he expects the defender to be out for the remainder of the club season.
However, on Tuesday the player insisted he would be available for selection for the tournament in Oland and Ukraine, and now Loew has confirmed that Mertesacker is still in the running for a call-up.
“We are in contact,” Loew told Goal.com. “But we assume that he will be able to get fit for the Euro.”
Loew also commented on the status of Stuttgart striker Cacau, who has been included in the 22-man squad to face France in a friendly on Wednesday, claiming the player has deserved his inclusion but is by no means guaranteed selection for Euro 2012.
“Cacau has again earned a chance,” Loew said. “But there remains the possibility that a new player can jump up.”
In addition to Cacau, Borussia Moenchengladbach striker Mike Hanke has been mooted as an option, as has Leverkusen target-man Stefan Kiessling.
Looking forward to Euro 2012, Loew’s hopes are high for his side, with the coach believing his team should be looking to go all the way.
“Our goal is, of course, to advance to the final,” he said.
