Kuranyi has not played for Germany since walking out on the team in 2008 after being left out of the match day squad for a World Cup qualifier, prompting coach Löw to declare he would never pick him again.

“The disciplinary incident in October 2008 did not play a role for me in the end,” said Löw in a statement on the DFB’s website. “But after consideration by our coaching staff we came to the decision that we have other tactical and personnel priorities for the World Cup squad.”

The 28-year-old has had the best season of his career scoring 18 goals with Schalke 04, who are second in the Bundesliga, three points behind leaders Bayern Munich. He has has played 52 times for Germany.

“I’ve discussed this in all openness with Kevin, who has played a strong season and whom I consider a professional of unquestionable character,” Löw said.

Löw clearly feels he has plenty of other choices at the front in the shape of Bayern Munich’s Miroslav Klose and Mario Gomez and Stuttgart’s in-form Cacau. Another is Bayer Leverkusen’s Stefan Kiessling, top scorer in the Bundesliga this season, level with Wolfsburg’s Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko with 21 goals.

The final decision on which 23 players will travel to South Africa for the June 11 to July 11 tournament is expected to be made during the team’s training camp in northern Italy in time for FIFA’s June 1 deadline.

“I gave all I could this season on the pitch, but sadly it wasn’t enough,” Kuranyi said. “But it is the national coach’s decision, and I respect and accept it. I wish the coach and all the team all the best for South Africa. Like every fan, I will have my fingers crossed in front of the TV.”

Germany have drawn Australia, Serbia and Ghana in Group D.