Kretzschmar recall?

The SC Magdeburg left-winger, who will turn 34 in February, was named the provisional 28-man party named in November before being left out of the trimmed squad currently on a pre-tournament training camp.

However, injury doubts over five key players could force Brand to turn to Kretzschmar and fellow veteran Christian Schwarzer.

Schwarzer, 37, said on Monday he had heard nothing from the Germany coach.

"I have had no call up yet," said point-man Schwarzer. "I was placed on stand-by, but I always said I hope the emergency does not happen."

Schwarzer and Kretzschmar were part of the "Golden Generation" that reached the final of four major tournaments between 2002 and 2004.