Germany coach Loew calls up newcomer Hoewedes

Published May. 26, 2011 12:18 p.m. ET

foxsports

Schalke defender Benedikt Hoewedes had to cancel his vacation after he gained a late spot in Germany's squad for the friendly against Uruguay and European Championship qualifiers in Austria and Azerbaijan.

Germany coach Joachim Loew called up Hoewedes on Thursday after midfielders Sven Bender and Bastian Schweinsteiger dropped out because of injuries.

Hoewedes has never played for Germany and said he was ''totally surprised'' by the call, adding that ''of course I immediately canceled my vacation.''

Germany hosts Uruguay on Sunday and then travels to Austria and Azerbaijan.