Joachim Loew has appointed Jonatha Tah as late replacement for injured Anotnio Ruediger, the German Soccer Federation (DFB) confirmed in a statement on Wednesday.

Bayer Leverkusen defender Tah earned a last-minute call-up as AS Roma defender Ruediger suffered an anterior cruciate ligament rupture in his right knee during a training session on Tuesday.

"On Wednesday morning the hospital has confirmed what the team doctor (Hans-Wilhelm Mueller-Wohlfahrt) had already diagnosed. The cruciate ligament in his right knee is torn. I am very sorry for Antonio," Germany coach Loew said.

Thus, Loew appointed 20-year-old youngster Tah, who made his senior debut in March against England. The defender plays since July 2015 for Leverkusen and provided one assist in 29 Bundesliga outings.

"I wanted to replace Antonio one-to-one. We have therefore nominated a player who can play on the same position. I am convinced that we can fully integrate him into the team training in a few days," Loew said.

With the appointment of Tah, Germany will be the youngest squad in the EURO 2016.

Joachim Loew' s men face Ukraine for their Group C opener on June 12.

source : xinhua