Mueller, Hummels Recalled By Germany For Euro 2020 Finals

Steve Clarke named uncapped trio Billy Gilmour, Nathan Paterson and David Turnbull in his Euro 2020 squad on Wednesday for Scotland’s first major international tournament in 23 years

BERLIN

Germany head coach Joachim Loew on Wednesday named Thomas Mueller and Mats Hummels in the 26-man provisional German squad for the Euro 2020 finals, ending the pair’s two-year exile.

“Back again,” Mueller, 31, posted on Twiter underneath a picture giving the thumbs up.

Hummels, 32, also reacted, on Instagram: “I am glad to be back I’m really up for the new chapter”.

However, there was no recall for Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng, who was also axed by Loew in March 2019 alongside Mueller and Hummels.

Loew said he did not regret binning Mueller and Hummels two years ago to give younger players a chance in the wake of the disastrous 2018 World Cup campaign when Germany crashed out in the group stages.

However, Germany’s coach admitted recent poor results - including a thrashing by Spain and shock home loss to North Macedonia - meant “we had to rethink everything”.

Germany have been drawn in a tough group and start their Euro 2020 campaign against world champions France on June 19 in Munich, where they also face holders Portugal four days later.

Bayern Munich forwards Mueller and Dortmund defender Hummels have been recalled because “in terms of leadership, they can also give the team a lot,” Loew added.

“We lacked stability and experience in some games. Mueller and Hummels have played very well this season, they can lead.”

Just as he had for his club, the centre-back can lend experience to a youthful German defence.