Real Madrid's Toni Kroos has left the Germany squad as a precautionary measure, with the midfielder apparently struggling with a persistent rib problem.
Released from Germany squad as precaution
Kroos played the full 90 minutes as Die Mannschaft beat Northern Ireland 3-1 in World Cup qualifying in Belfast on Thursday, showing few signs of discomfort.
But with Germany's victory seeing them seal qualification for Russia 2018, boss Joachim Löw has opted not to risk the 27-year-old against Azerbaijan on Sunday.
Kroos runs with the ball during the World Cup qualifier between Northern Ireland and Germany in Belfast. Alexander Hassenstein (Bongarts/Getty Images)
Kroos to have tests on rib complaint in Madrid
Former Bayern Munich player Kroos has returned to the Spanish capital and will undergo tests to ascertain the exact extent of the issue.
"We know what we have in Toni," Löw explained. "When we need him, we can always trust him. What really matters is that he is in perfect condition next year, and that until then he successfully comes through a long, tiring season."
