Germany suffer injury blow as player ruled out of Euro 2024 with former Liverpool man called up as replacement

Germany have been forced into a late change to their Euro 2024 squad just days before the tournament.

As hosts, Julian Nagelsmann's side kick off the showpiece against Scotland at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Friday.

But they have been dealt a blow as just two days before the fixture, Bayern Munich midfielder Aleksandar Pavlovic has been struck down with illness, as per Reuters.

After suffering from tonsillitis which ruled him out of Friday's win, he has therefore left the squad.

But with permission from UEFA, Borussia Dortmund captain Emre Can has been drafted in as a replacement.

"We wanted another Six in the squad and we decided to nominate Emre Can," Nagelsmann said.

"He was instantly excited and said he was ready to join the team. We wanted a player in the squad who has played a lot of matches and who knows how to handle pressure. He fits the profile and we can now use him."

Image: Getty

Pavlovic enjoyed a breakthrough season at Bayern, playing 22 games in all competitions under Thomas Tuchel.

Eligible to play for Serbia, the 20-year-old only made his senior Germany debut earlier this month against Ukraine and was included in the 26-man squad.

But because it was only a friendly, Pavlovic is still technically able to represent the Balkan country - his father's place of birth.

His cruel situation gives Can the chance to add to his 43 caps for Germany.

Image: Getty

The former Liverpool and Juventus man has appeared in two previous Euro tournaments for Die Mannschaft but did not make the cut in the last two World Cups.

The home tournament will be the last for veteran midfielder Toni Kroos as he has announced he will retiring after the showpiece.

As well as Scotland, Germany also take on Hungary and Switzerland in Group A.

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