Hummels a doubt for Germany opener

Mats Hummels has revealed he is unlikely to feature in Germany’s opening game of Euro 2016 against Ukraine due to a calf injury.

The defender picked up the problem during Borussia Dortmund’s DFB-Pokal final defeat against Bayern Munich and has so far failed to appear in Die Mannschaft’s build-up to this summer’s tournament, including Sunday’s 3-1 defeat to Slovakia.

Hummels, who recently left Dortmund to return to Bayern ahead of next season, was a key part of Germany’s success at the 2014 World Cup, forming a brilliant central defensive partnership alongside Jerome Boateng.

The duo were expected to resume their combination in France but Joachim Low may now have a decision to make after the 27-year-old confirmed he is unsure if he will be available for his team’s opener against Ukraine on June 12.

Benedikt Howedes is the most likely man to replace him for the clash in which Germany are currently 1.50 to win in Lille, with the draw 3.80 and the Ukrainians 7.00.

Hummels admits he is unsure if he will be ready for his side’s opening game in France but insists it would not be a problem if he did not return until his team’s second or third Group C outing.

“When I’ll be back? It depends on how I feel and what the coach thinks about my fitness,” Hummels said. “Ideally I’d be ready for the first game against Ukraine, but it would not be a problem if I make my comeback in the second or third game.”

Germany are currently 4.50 to win the tournament outright, with hosts France the favourites at 4.00, while holders Spain are priced at 6.50.