Hey there,

as a big fan of the German Bundesliga, i think i can give you all a good introduction of the key players on the German squad.

- Manuel Neuer, Goalie - It's his first big tournament as our # 1 goalie. He's not as experienced in international competition as Wiese or Butt, but had arguably the best season of the three and it is expected that he and Adler (once he's healthy) will compete for the # 1. He has weaknesses when he leaves his goal, but he is a great footballer.

- Per Mertesacker, Defender - Despite only being 25 years old, he has appered in 60 matches for Germany already and is one of our veteran players. He looks kinda slow because he's so tall, but he has a great football IQ and a great feeling for the game. He's the chief player of our defense.

- Philipp Lahm, Defender - Our new captain. Is a great player on both outer sides of the field, very quick and offensive-minded. Very experienced, had a great season with Bayern Munich winning two national titles.

- Bastian Schweinsteiger, Midfielder - Was considered an offensive midfielder for years, but has developed a solid defensive game and now playing in the central midfield. It is expected that he will take Ballack's role as the player that switches from defense to offense and provides the ball. Veteran player with already 73 matches for Germany.

- Lukas Podolski, Forward - He played a disappointing season for Cologne (only 2 goals and 4 assists in 27 matches). But Löw will definately play him, since he has mostly been great while plaing for the national team. Has played some time in the offensive midfield position and may switch to this position in games. Has a great goal rate when playing for Germany (71 matches, 37 goals).

- Miroslav Klose, Forward - His season was as disappointing as Podolski's (only 2 goals), but his international reputation is still great. He is the player with the most experience on the squad. His biggest strength is his unselfishness, he always has the eye for the player in the better position. But he is also a deadly finisher (48 goals in 94 matches) and often hits with the header.

These are in my opinion the key players of the german team. All in all they are very experienced despite being still very young.

Check back later as i will make up a FanPost about the newcomers on the German team.