Joachim Low's men hold a five-point lead over second-placed Czech Republic - who travel to minnows San Marino - with five games to go.

A further point back are Republic of Ireland, who face a crunch trip to Slovakia.

Low is without midfielder Michael Ballack, who is suffering from an ankle injury and has been omitted from the Chelsea's Champions League squad, but goalkeeper Jens Lehmann will start despite a poor start to the season for Arsenal and minor Achilles and elbow injuries.

Real Betis midfielder David Odonkor, who was a surprise omission from the initial squad, has been recalled following the groin injury suffered by Stuttgart defender Serdar Tasci.

Low also welcomes back a host of key players who were absent from the recent friendly victory over England at Wembley.

Bayern Munich trio Lukas Podolski, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Miroslav Klose are back in contention as well as young Stuttgart star Mario Gomez.

Wales, meanwhile, have regulars James Collins, Craig Bellamy, Jason Koumas, Carl Robinson, Karl Fletcher and Gareth Bale available following injuries.

San Marino face the daunting task of hosting Euro 96 finalists Czech Republic, who are at full strength and hoping to hang onto second place.

The group minnows have conceded 37 goals in seven games so far, including seven against the Czechs in Liberec last October.

Should they pull off a shock in Serravalle, the Irish have will have the chance to leapfrog Karel Bruckner's men.

Coach Steve Staunton has suffered an array of withdrawals, with Steve Finnan joining Darren Potter, Alan O'Brien, Stephen Carr and Wayne Henderson on the treatment table.

Paul McShane and John O'Shea are also doubts, but goalkeeper Shay Given's return from a groin injury could be crucial.

Robert Vittek is a key absentee for Slovakia, who can pull to within a point of Ireland with a win.