Füllkrug is back in Klopp's Germany squad – and Neuer's injury opens questions

Some players get bad news on a Bundesliga weekend. Others get a call-up. Niclas Füllkrug got a bit of both, and Germany coach Jürgen Klopp now wants another look at the Bremen striker.

What happened?

Füllkrug, 33, has been scoring regularly for Werder Bremen. Now he is back in the national team squad for the Nations League games against Serbia on Friday and the Netherlands on Monday.

His weekend was not perfect, though. Bremen lost 1-0 in Stuttgart.

The bigger blow hit Bayern Munich. As we reported earlier, goalkeeper Manuel Neuer suffered a partial tendon tear in his right foot during the win at Mainz. He is expected to be out until the new year.

Why is everyone talking about it?

Every coach can use goals, and Füllkrug delivers them. According to the Süddeutsche Zeitung's football podcast, he also brings some qualities the national team has been missing.

Klopp's squad also says a lot about his plans for the near future. The podcast looks at how Füllkrug and other attacking options might fit in. It also asks what could change in goal now that Neuer is injured.

There is also some side drama. Felix Nmecha scored for Borussia Dortmund and celebrated with a gesture that sparked criticism, including from the club's fan department. DFB sporting director Rudi Völler (the DFB is Germany's football association) announced a talk with the player. Klopp has reportedly already spoken to him.

What's next?

Füllkrug now has two matches to make his case: Serbia on Friday, then the Netherlands on Monday. Meanwhile, the goalkeeper position will be watched closely.