Can Can Start in Euro 2016 Semifinal?

After a phenomenal second season for Emre Can at Liverpool, one in which he broke into the senior German national team with three appearances in various friendlies, there was the outside hope that he could play a role in this year's European Championship. So far that hope has not been realized, as the Liverpool midfielder has been rooted to the bench, a mere spectator like the rest of us.

However, Germany are facing a bit of a midfield crisis entering Thursday night's clash with host nation France. Both Bastian Schweinsteiger and Sami Khedira picked up knocks during the quarterfinal tie with Italy, and both are doubtful for a quick return. Additionally, central defender Mats Hummels is unavailable due to suspension.

German national team manager Joachim Löw named Can as a possible solution to his personnel shortage, citing the player's versatility.

"You can use Emre Can in many positions," Löw explained. "He'd be a player who would do well for our game. Julian Weigl is also a very good player, though, just a different type of player. We will wait for two or three more days and then we'll see how the decision plays out."

Löw's comments seem to raise the possibility of the midfielder moving back to defense. Theoretically Can in defense is a possibility, but probably not the best decision, especially with a very capable attacking France side that just hung five goals on tournament darling Iceland.

Regardless of where he ends up, it would be nice to see Can rewarded with a spot in Die Mannschaft, especially for such an important tie.