Adler to replace Enke against Azerbaijan

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BERLIN - Goalkeeper Rene Adler will replace Robert Enke when Germany host Azerbaijan in a World Cup qualifier on Wednesday, coach Joachim Loew said on Tuesday.

Enke, who had been picked to play in all three remaining qualifiers for Group Four leaders Germany, pulled out on Monday saying he was feeling ill and would undergo medical tests.

"We had decided until the end of the year (on Enke). But now Robert Enke is out due to an infection," Loew told reporters.

"Rene Adler is very confident following his good performance against South Africa and that is why he will be in goal against Azerbaijan. After that we will see."

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Adler, who made some spectacular saves in Germany's 2-0 win over South Africa in a friendly on Saturday, is vying for the spot with Enke, Tim Wiese and Manuel Neuer as Germany close in on 2010 World Cup qualification.