Germany without Ozil, Khedira for qualifiers against N Ireland, Azerbaijan

Germany will be without Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira of Juventus as they chase a perfect World Cup qualifying record.

Joachim Low’s side travel to Northern Ireland, where a draw will guarantee them a place in Russia, before hosting Azerbaijan.

They have won all eight of their qualifying matches so far but Northern Ireland could still mathematically beat them to automatic qualification from Group C.




Low, who welcomes back Bayern Munich’s Jerome Boateng and Manchester City’s Leroy Sane, said he was disappointed that neither Ozil, who has a knee problem, nor Khedira (thigh) could be part of the last two qualifiers.
He told the official German FA (DFB) website: “It’s a shame that some of our key players can’t join us.

“I’d like to think that Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira can cure their injuries during the international break. Right now, that’s more important for them. It’s crucial the players are fully fit next year.”

Low said he had said his sights on completing a perfect qualifying group, adding: “Our goal is to win 10 victories. If we concentrate on our strengths, we can succeed.

“We are all looking forward to the game in Belfast. There will be a special atmosphere — the fans will back their team unconditionally and loudly.”