Black and Yellow Euro 2012?

The time has come. Only three days remain until the UEFA Euro 2012 starts in Poland and Ukraine. A long way lies behind our protagonists and their national teams – now it is the time to reward themselves for the hard work that resulted out of several qualification matches. The aim of this text will be to present the 09 players who participate in the Euro 2012 and their chances to be first-team regulars. So lean back, and enjoy this little Black and Yellow Euro introduction!

Germany

The German national side blazed its trail through the Euro qualifiers with impressive 30 points out of 10 matches. But if the team will meet the requirements is still open. Already before the beginning of the tournament, Sven Bender was excluded out of the national team due to his last performances, which were not convincing and certainly the reason of several injuries he had to withstand during the last season. Nevertheless: Your time will come Sven!

Marcel Schmelzer:

Schmelle had to survive the fight for the position of the second left-back against Dennis Aogo and won it extremely close. According to all accounts coach Joachim Löw trusts in Philipp Lahm as his first left-back. Although Lahm does not prefer the position on the left wing, Löw will use this solution. Unfortunately Marcel Schmelzer does not confirm what he has shown in the Bundesliga when he wears the national dress. Especially the friendly match against Switzerland revealed weaknesses that have not seen before.

Prediction: Schmelzer has to accept his role as backup for skipper Philipp Lahm.

Ilkay Gündogan:

When Jogi Löw nominated his squad, it was a big surprise that Gündogan participates in the Euro. With only two international caps he rewarded himself for the brilliant second half of the season. However he has to compete with players like Sami Kedhira, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Toni Kroos and Lars Bender for a place in the starting-lineup. Even though several defensive midfielders are out of form, it is questionable that Ilkay will give an impressive display.

Prediction: Löw will trust in the more experienced players.

Mario Götze:

Our beloved young superstar Mario Götze still seems inhibited by the inflammation of the pubic joint that sidelined him for several months. Not only that his body does not seem to be in the best shape, he also lacks match practice. His actions on the pitch do not have that freshness that usually characterizes his style of play.

Prediction: It is a pity that Götze was out of action for this long time, but I am convinced that he will collect some appearances during Euro 2012.

Mats Hummels:

A great controversy. During the last years Mats Hummels rose up to be the best German central defender. Neverthless it seems like Joachim Löw will trust in Holger Badstuber and Per Mertesacker. A player who is in a brilliant shape has to clear the way for a beanpole that has not played for Arsenal FC since February! Even though the performance of Mats against Switzerland was not that good, but so was Mertesacker.

Predicition: The best German defender will watch the Euro 2012 from the bench.

Marco Reus:

During all test matches Marco Reus was one of the first players who were put in. His substitutions had always an stimulating effect.

Prediction: He will get his appearances.

Poland

Here they are, the hosts of the UEFA Euro 2012. Due to their hosting duties the Polish team was able to prepare for the tournament for two years. Three players of Borussia Dortmund build an axis that wants to cause a sensation. Quite a few people choose Poland as their insiders' tip, including me.

Jakub 'Kuba' Blaszczykowski:

With his brilliant second part of the season, he won the hearts of the whole Westfalenstadion. Success will depend on his sprinting skills, I am confident.

Prediction: Indispensable regular player.

Lukasz Piszczek:

An indestructible instigator. Together with Kuba he will try to make the defensive lines dizzy. Similar skills than his partner on the right wing.

Prediction: First-team regular.

Robert Lewandowski:

His talent should be clear and is vital for the whole Polish team. If he can prove his exciting development during the past years remains to be seen.

Prediction: Regular.

Croatia

Through the playoffs Croatia made its way to the Euro 2012. The team around superstar Luka Modric is an serious opponent that had bad luck with the draw for the group stage. Spain, Italy and Ireland are strong stuff.

Ivan Perisic:

The Croatian is equipped with a lot of talent, that he flashed during the last season. In the team of Slaven Bilic he is a undisputed.

Prediction: Regular starter.

derjungemitdemball, 05.06.2012

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