Slomka hails working relationship with DFB
01.02.2008
Schalke players are flavour of the month with Joachim Löw. The Germany boss has named three Royal Blues in his squad for the clash with Austria. A development that Mirko Slomka finds particularly pleasing.
The Schalke boss feels the nomination of Heiko Westermann is a reflection the defender's exceptional commitment: "Heiko has worked incredibly hard in training in recent months. And now he's been rewarded for his efforts."
Löw said: "Westermann is a versatile defender who can play not only at centre-back but also on the left or right. Obviously he is benefiting from the fact that an entire defensive unit is not available to face Austria, but it gives us a chance to have a look at him at international level."
Slomka recommended Westermann to the national coach as an alternative for the defence in recognition of the progress he has made over the last six months. "I'm delighted he's decided to have a look at Heiko. It is an indication of the good working relationship between the FA and the clubs", he said.
Meanwhile Jermaine Jones is hoping that good things come in threes. The 26-year-old has been called up to the national squad twice before, once while on the books of Eintracht Frankfurt and most recently for the internationals against Cyprus and Wales last November. But the midfielder was forced to withdraw on both occasions due to injury. 'It's nice for Jermaine to be given another chance", said Slomka. It's recognition of the fact that he's maintained a consistently high standard of performance without suffering a dip in form after being forced to withdraw the first time he was called up as a Schalke player."
Löw emphasised again on Thursday that he and his coaching staff had been watching Jones closely for some time and were impressed by his progress. There is even a possibility that Jones will start against Austria. "With his stamina and strength in the tackle he is an alternative for the central position in defensive midfield following the loss of Torsten Frings."
