Bernd Leno has pulled out of Germany’s squad for the upcoming Euro 2020 qualifiers against Belarus and Estonia, due to a recurring problem with his thumb.

WATFORD, ENGLAND - APRIL 15: Bernd Leno of Arsenal gathers the ball during the Premier League match between Watford FC and Arsenal FC at Vicarage Road on April 15, 2019 in Watford, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
WATFORD, ENGLAND – APRIL 15: Bernd Leno of Arsenal gathers the ball during the Premier League match between Watford FC and Arsenal FC at Vicarage Road on April 15, 2019, in Watford, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

Germany have confirmed the Arsenal goalkeeper will be replaced by Bayern Munich’s Sven Ulreich for their upcoming fixtures. The DFB released a statement that Leno has had pain in his hand recently, and he’s having a splint put on his thumb to help his recovery, so he won’t be available.

It’s a shame for Leno, given how strong the competition is in goal for Germany. With the likes of Manuel Neuer and Marc-Andre ter Stegen taking up so many minutes for the country, the Arsenal man would’ve wanted to capitalise on every opportunity to prove himself.

The 27-year-old also had to deal with sitting on the bench whilst Petr Cech conceded four in the Europa League final on Wednesday, so it’s been a pretty bad week. Perhaps it’s for the best that he didn’t play if he’s been suffering with an injury recently though. At least sitting the game out meant he didn’t make it worse.