Four VfB Stuttgart players being called up to the Germany squad is "confirmation" that the Bundesliga surprise packages have excelled this term, coach Sebastian Hoeneß says.
Stuttgart are third in the Bundesliga and closing in on a shock Champions League berth having narrowly avoided relegation last season.
Deniz Undav, Waldemar Anton and Maximilian Mittelstädt were all called up by Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann for the first time on Thursday, joining the previously nominated Chris Führich.
"It is a great compliment and Im really excited for them," Hoeneß told a news conference ahead of Saturday's Bundesliga clash at his former side Hoffenheim.
"They are all a big reason why we are having an extraordinary campaign. All four have really made an impact."
Despite his call-up, Stuttgart captain and defender Anton could not train on Thursday but should be fit for Saturday.
"That was just precautionary," Hoeneß said.
Hiroki Ito is meanwhile doubtful while Anthony Rouault is definitely out after an operation on a broken jaw.
The 3-2 defeat by Hoffeneim in the first half of the season was Stuttgart's only home defeat so far this term.
"We saw in that game what Hoffenheim are all about. They have a lot of good players and we have to be more alert defensively," Hoeneß added.
