Football
ESPN staff 9y

Julian Draxler a doubt for Germany Euro 2016 qualifiers vs. Poland, Ireland

Schalke attacking midfielder Julian Draxler is a doubt for Germany's upcoming Euro 2016 qualifiers against Poland and Republic of Ireland after suffering from flu and failing to join up with the squad on Tuesday.

Joachim Low's World Cup-winning side travel to Warsaw to face Poland on Saturday before hosting Ireland in Gelsenkirchen on Tuesday as they look to build on their winning start to Group D qualifying.

Draxler, 21, made just one appearance at the 2014 World Cup -- coming on as a 76th minute substitute in the 7-1 thrashing of hosts Brazil -- and missed Die Mannschaft's opening Euro 2016 Group D victory over Scotland with a thigh injury.

"Whether Julian will be called up at a later date will be decided in the coming days and after consultation with the medical and sports departments," the Germany team said in a statement.

"So it is still open if he will take part against Poland and against Ireland on Tuesday."

In-form Bayer Leverkusen attackerĀ Karim Bellarabi could make his senior Germany debut against either Poland or Republic of Ireland, while Borussia Monchengladbach striker Max Kruse will also be hoping to impress after being recalled to the squad by Low.

Poland currently top Group D after defeating Gibraltar 7-0 in their opening contest, while Republic of Ireland overcame Georgia 2-1.

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