Who would you start?

The last time Germany won the Euro it was in 1996. This summer, they hope to do it again. There is much speculation as to who will make the start for Loew as many changes have come to the team since he took over. He has 26 players which will reduce to 23 and, as we all know, only eleven get to start. Some speculation is that Podolski will be the out of favor striker and that Gomez will get the start alongside Klose. I’m not entirely sure who will get the nod, but these are the ones that I would pick (in no particular order).

Jens Lehmann // While he hasn’t received a lot of playing time with Arsenal, but he has played 621 minutes without conceding a goal at the international level.

Per Mertesacker // I don’t really have a reason for this other than he’s one of my favorite players at the National level.

Marcell Jansen // The talent that he has didn’t shine completely for Bayern, but he really has an incredible amount of skill and it would be somewhat foolish to put him on the bench.

Bastian Schweinsteiger // While having what I consider a horrible season with Bayern, the one thing that you can say about Bastian is that his international game is generally above average. He deserves at least a chance to prove this once more before being relegated to the bench.

Philipp Lahm // He had some moments with Bayern where his form looked off, but near the end of the season he really picked up and started playing with heart and determination.

Christoph Metzelder // Arne Friedrich – I’m up in the air because both have been injured and both have been key players for their teams (BvB moreso than Madrid for Metze) and internationally when they’ve been fit. And I’m a big fan of Arne, but I can see the value in Metze as well.

Mario Gomez // Does this need an explanation really? Really? How about 28 goals in 32 starts for Stuttgart. Isn’t that reason enough in itself?

Miroslav Klose // While Klose has seen a slump in form, the one thing about him is that he creates chances for his teammates. He may not score himself, but he knows how to see the ball through and he has the ability to set up some incredible goals.

Marko Marin // Trust me, you’re going to want to watch this kid. Check out Jan’s entry here on The Germany Blog for more information on him.

Michael Ballack // 9 Goals in 24 starts with Chelsea. Reason enough.

Torsten Frings // Because with Ballack he’s quite incredible.

Those are my choices. What about you guys? Who would you put in the starting line if it were your decision?