Volland nominated for preliminary World Cup squad! Rudy called up for Poland friendly!

It's the first call-up to the senior team for Volland, who is currently the captain of Germany's U21 side. Rudy was nominated back in June 2011, but didn't make an appearance against Azerbaijan in Baku.

Reaction to the call-ups:

Kevin Volland: Hansi Flick called me yesterday afternoon. It was quite difficult to keep it to myself. Of course I told my parents, who I was on the phone to for a long time yesterday, and my girlfriend, who I went for dinner with last night. I get to train with Germany's best players. That's an honour and it will be great fun. Like always, I booked my holiday with cancellation insurance. I don't know whether it's valid in this case though. I'll have to do some research on that. But one thing is for certain. Joining up with the national side is much better than going on holiday.

Sebastian Rudy: Obviously I'm delighted with the call-up. It's something very special. I want to make an impression in training and on Joachim Löw. My time with the national team when I got called up in 2011 was a great experience. We'll have to wait and see whether I get my first appearance this time against Poland.

Markus Gisdol: Joachim Löw called me up yesterday and informed me of his decision. It's an extraordinary day for TSG. On top of that, it's also a great honour for both of them, but also for the whole team. Kevin is very flexible in attack. I think that has played a role in him being called up. He's very down-to-earth and keeps a clear head – you don't have to keep him on a leash. Sebastian Rudy has developed well this season and is a player with great footballing and strategic skills, as well as having a lot of potential.

Dietmar Hopp: I'm delighted that Kevin Volland and Sebastian Rudy have been called up for the friendly against Poland. It's a great honour that they both deserve after their performances in the Bundesliga this season. Kevin now has a big chance to go to the World Cup in Brazil and I will be crossing my fingers for him, hoping that this dream becomes a reality.