The 26-year-old scored four times in Schalke's 5-0 drubbing of Energie Cottbus on Tuesday to silence the recent criticism which has come his way.

And Low told the Kolner Express: "Kevin will - if nothing else gets in the way - be at the European Championship."

Kuranyi has approaching 50 caps for the national team, with a scoring record of nearly a goal every two games, but his place on the plane to Austria and Switzerland had been in question after a disappointing club campaign which has led to the dismissal of coach Mirko Slomka.

Low added: "Kevin had a weaker phase, but in the past years he has won us over and scored many goals. He is valuable to us."

Bayern Munich's Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski and Stuttgart's Mario Gomez had already sewn up three of the striking slots for the tournament.

Low though could spring a surprise with his fifth choice in attack, hinting Patrick Helmes of second-division Koln could be included.

The 24-year-old has four caps for the national team, but has not featured in Germany's last two friendlies against Switzerland and Austria.

Helmes though is hitting form just at the right time, having scored four goals in his last four games to boost Koln's promotion push.

Low said: "Patrick has a chance to be at the European Championship. For several games his form has clearly been on the up."

Helmes has found his form since the winter break after enduring a difficult start the the season.

He was stripped of the captaincy by Koln coach Christoph Daum and in January agreed to join Bayer Leverkusen next season after refusing to sign new contract at the RheinEnergieStadion.

Low added: "Before the winter break Patrick had to fight. I have spoken with Patrick about a few things and am in contact with Christoph Daum.

"I know Patrick's contract situation. The important thing was that he identified himself professionally with Koln in games and also in training. And now he does that.

"Since the winter break Patrick is back on the mark and his head is free. He is focusing all his energy on Koln.

"Patrick has the form he needs in order to help Koln (win promotion). When it comes to it, he is really dangerous. He has an exceptional shooting technique and an eye for goal."