"Before going (home) he sent his best wishes to the squad and wished them victory against Germany," the TFF said. Turkey are decimated through injuries and suspensions, with nine players unavailable for the semi-final.

Coach Fatih Terim says he may even need deputy keeper Tolgan Zengin to play outfield, so short is he of players.

Nihat hurt his thigh three minutes from the end of the game in Friday's penalty shoot-out win over Croatia in Vienna.

The 28-year-old replaced the injured Emre Belozoglu for the group match against the Czech Republic - and scored twice late on in Turkey's remarkable 3-2 comeback win which saw them qualify from Group A.

A team spokesman said Emre had a 50-50 chance of playing against Germany.

Germany coach Joachim Low said Simon Rolfes could retain his place in midfield as Torsten Frings remains doubtful with a broken rib.

Rolfes impressed in quarter-final win over Portugal after the influential was ruled out through his injury.

BBC