Loew impressed by in-form Helmes

Germany coach Joachim Loew has praised Wolfsburg striker Patrick Helmes as preparations continue for Euro 2012.

Helmes, 28, has scored six times in 11 Bundesliga matches this season, and national team coach Loew believes the Wolfsburg man is finally starting to deliver on his considerable promise.

“We have always known that Helmes has enormous quality for a striker,” Loew told Bild.

With Germany’s Euro 2012 campaign in mind, Loew said Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker is making good progress as he seeks to recover from an ankle injury suffered in February.

“His healing process and prognosis is going well,” Loew said.

“He should be back within the first two weeks of April, but we need to see how resilient his foot is.”

Loew also said he may name a larger provisional squad for the European Championships if Bayern Munich reach the Champions League final at their Allianz Arena home on May 19.

“If Bayern reach the final of the Champions League, then it is clear that we will nominate some more players,” he said.