Kevin Grosskreutz is likely to make his Germany comeback on Wednesday, according to German football magazine kicker. Three years after his third and last international cap, the 25-year-old is not only included in the squad for the friendly against Chile, he is also set to be included in the starting XI.

“On-going injury and form problems of his potential World Cup candidates have forced Löw to take action against World Cup rivals Chile on Wednesday. Kevin Grosskreutz, who after winning three caps had to wait almost three and half years for another call-up, is set to make his comeback. Löw will be using Grosskreutz, remodelled by BVB coach Jürgen Klopp into a right back last summer, to play in his newly learned position in the DFB team as well – because Philipp Lahm is set to move into the midfield holding position,” says the football magazine in Monday’s edition. Germany coach Joachim Löw is quoted, saying: “I plan with Lahm in midfield. Now is the chance to act and find solutions and alternatives for when it matters most.”

Outstanding average ratings in UEFA Champions League
As back-up to his injured team-mate Lukasz Piszczek, Kevin Grosskreutz has mostly occupied the right-back position in the first half of the season, putting in convincing - as well as some outstanding - performances on a regular basis, both in Germany and on the international stage. Kicker magazine have given him an average rating of 2.29 (1=best; 6=worst) for his performances in the Champions League. For comparison: Germany captain Philipp Lahm got a 2.33 rating (also outstanding!) from kicker for his displays in Europe.

“I’m very happy about the call-up,“ said Grosskreutz last weekend before joining up with the national team. “If picked, I really don’t mind what position I play. I will definitely give everything!” Due to his versatility, determination and character, Grosskreutz would be the perfect choice for a tournament squad. He played his last of three Germany caps in a 1-1 draw with Italy in February 2011.

In other team news, Marcel Schmelzer is set to play on the left of defence against Chile in what would be his 16th Germany appearance, while Roman Weidenfeller will be on the bench as second-choice keeper.

Wednesday’s friendly in Stuttgart will kick-off at 2045 CET, and is shown live on German channel ARD.