Boateng is the half-brother of Kevin-Prince Boateng, whose heavy challenge on Michael Ballack in Saturday's FA Cup final between Chelsea and Portsmouth has forced the Germany skipper out of the World Cup finals.

Ballack had an MRI scan this morning after which it was revealed the former Bayern Munich man had damaged ligaments in his right ankle and would not be fit to lead his country in South Africa.

Hamburg defender Jerome was named in the provisional squad last week and is almost certain to feature in the final 23-man party.

"I have spoken with Jerome Boateng," said Low. "I told him that we absolutely unreservedly stand by him. He is a member of the family.

"I ask everyone not to drag him into this."