Kroos: Germany release Real Madrid man over rib complaint
With Germany now qualified for the 2018 World Cup, Real midfielder Toni Kroos has returned to Madrid for tests on a niggling rib problem.
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 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."
