Germany have demonstrated the remarkable strength and depth of their squad by omitting Leroy Sane from the 23 for the World Cup.
The 22-year-old forward had been tipped as one to watch in -Russia after his outstanding season at Manchester City, which saw him voted the PFA Young Player of the Year. However, he was named -yesterday as one of four players cut from Joachim Low's squad.
Left out: Leroy Sane failed to make Germany's final squad.
Photo: AP
Given that a player with Sane's ability would be a first choice for most nations, it is a remarkable decision by Low. But, having won the World Cup in Brazil, and ahead of his sixth tournament, Low has earned the right to make such bold choices.
Sane, it seems, simply does not fit into the style of play the coach wants. There may also be significance in the fact Sane did not go to the Confederations Cup last summer – he had surgery on his nose – and Brandt took his place then.
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Sane's decision did not go down well with Low, given it was a chance to stake his claim. Even so, Sane has started the -majority of Germany's recent friendlies, but is not thought to have impressed.
Meanwhile, -Vincent Kompany, Sane's City team-mate, has been included in Belgium's squad, -despite suffering a groin injury during their friendly against Portugal on Saturday.
Kompany walked off early in the second half, without waiting to be substituted by coach Roberto Martinez and, although the extent of his injury is still being assessed, he has kept his place.
Martinez has, though, named Laurent Ciman, who plays for Los Angeles FC, as a reserve. Belgium have until 24 hours before their opening match against Panama on June 18 to make a final decision.
As expected, Mohamed Salah has been named in Egypt's squad, -despite suffering a shoulder injury in the Champions League final. The Liverpool forward will join up with the squad on June 9.
The Telegraph, London
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