World Cup 2018: Analysing Germany's provisional squad

Defenders

The Bayern duo of Hummels and Boateng will partner once more at the back

Not a lot of questionable selections here, as Germany's stability at the back has always been notable. The absence of Philipp Lahm at right-back and as captain will be a sight sorely missed, but this is still a back 4 that is capable of holding their own against any attack in the tournament.

The probable players starting will be Jonas Hector at left back, Mats Hummels and Jerome Boateng partnering as centre-backs, and Joshua Kimmich slotting in at right-back. Boateng and Hummels form the backbone of Bayern's defence as well, and their chemistry will be vital to the team.

Mats Hummels has been in excellent form in the Bundesliga, appearing in 26 games for the German champions at 2.4 tackles, 2.1 interceptions and 2.2 clearances per game. Jerome Boateng has featured in 19 games, garnering 1.4 tackles and 2.6 clearances per game.

The real deal, however, is the right back - Joshua Kimmich. Replacing the enormous boots of Philipp Lahm in both Bayern Munich as well as the national team, the youngster has more than settled into the role.

While his defensive duties are not as robust as his counterparts, he is the main engine that facilitates the transition from defence to attack. Functioning more as a wing-back than a fullback, he often finds his way into the opposition box and is an essential part of the attack - as exhibited by his 6 goals and 13 assists across all competitions for Bayern.

Niklas Süle, who is also the centre-back who helps with the rotation at Bayern, finds his way into the squad as back-up. At 2 clearances and 1.3 tackles per game, and a frame that aids aerial defending, he is more than capable of serving as an adequate asset from the bench.

Bayer Leverkusen's Jonathan Tah has had a fantastic season as well, with the stats to back it up - 3.9 clearances and 1.7 tackles per game in 28 appearances. However, the 22-year-old centre back might be the one to get axed when the squad gets trimmed, owing to the abundance of central defenders.

Antonio Rüdiger might look a little weak, but barring the occasional wrong footing, he has been solid at the back for Chelsea and will make for an able back-up. Chelsea have kept a clean sheet in 13 of the 27 matches he has appeared in the league, with 3.7 clearances and 1.1 tackles per game.

Marvin Plattenhardt, Hertha Berlin's 26 year old left back is an exciting name on the list (33 appearances in the league with 1.7 tackles and 2.2 clearances per game), and will be unlucky to fight alongside Koln's Jonas Hector (20 appearances with 2.4 tackles and 2.5 clearances per game) for the starting spot.

Despite being a part of relegated Koln, Hector has caught numerous eyes with his defensive acumen and positional awareness. Boasting an impressive 2.4 clearances and 2.3 tackles per game, he will make up for Kimmich's interest to move ahead by covering the space.

Borussia Mönchengladbach's Matthias Ginter makes up the final name on the roster. His ability to play on the right as well as the centre makes him a valuable addition to the squad, just in case Kimmich needs a rest. He also has the occasional goal in him, and Loew will make use of him from the bench when required.