Manuel Neuer has been named in Germany’s preliminary 27-man squad for the FIFA 2018 World Cup.
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The Bayern Munich goalkeeper and Germany captain makes the grade, despite only returning to first-team training a week ago following a lengthy absence.
Neuer, 32, has not played since suffering his second metatarsal break in six months in the 4-0 win over Mainz on 16 September 2017.
Star man: Manuel Neuer
He hasn’t played since September because of a second metatarsal fracture, but Neuer – nearing a return to first-team action – is one player worth gambling on. The Bayern and Germany No.1 has rewritten the goalkeeper’s handbook in recent years, and adds a layer of watertight security to the last line of defence other nations can only dream of. The best of his generation, the best of all time – the World Cup would not be the same without him.
