Joachim Low: 'Lukas Podolski is indispensable to Germany'

Germany coach Joachim Low has insisted that Lukas Podolski remains integral to his future plans, despite increased competition for a starting spot on the left wing.

Podolski has scored 46 times in 110 appearances for Germany, remaining a regular under Low despite the fine recent form of Marco Reus and Chelsea summer signing Andre Schurrle.

Low believes that Podolski provides a dynamism that makes him "indispensable" to the Mannschaft, backing the Arsenal forward to stay an international regular for years to come.

He told Kicker: "Podolski is still a very important player, because he strengthens the team with his abilities.

"With his dynamic style and his important goals, he has repeatedly showed his unpredictability can be a decisive factor in matches.

"Therefore, despite the competition from other players, Lukas is indispensable in his position at the moment."

The 28-year-old joined up with the national team in Mainz last night ahead of Wednesday's friendly with Paraguay.