BERLIN — Promoted Kaiserslautern stunned champions Bayern Munich with two goals in 60 seconds to win 2-0 on Friday to go top of the Bundesliga with six points from two games.
The hosts, playing in front of a sellout 49,780 crowd, struck against the run of play when Croatian midfielder Ivo Ilicevic hammered a brilliant shot from 20 metres in the 36th minute.
A minute later Ilicevic, who was sent off near the end for a second caution, turned provider to set up countryman Srdan Lakic who slotted his third goal in two matches.
Bayern, who won their opening game of the season, desperately tried to claw their way back in the second period but squandered half a dozen chances mainly through former Kaiserslautern striker Miroslav Klose, Ivica Olic and Toni Kroos.
"Over 90 minutes we were the better team and had better chances but it was just not meant to be tonight," Bayern defender Philipp Lahm told reporters.
Bayern, still missing winger Arjen Robben through injury but with Croat Olic back in the team, took control early on and missed a good chance when Thomas Mueller sent the ball wide from 12 metres midway through the first half.
The visitors, though, were left with a mountain to climb after Ilicevic and Lakic struck.
"A key moment was Mueller's chance. We survived that and then we played with a lot of heart," said Kaiserslautern coach Marco Kurz.
The Bavarians deserved a goal in the second half but lacked the final touch as Kaiserslautern, who lost only twice at home in 17 matches last season, held on.
"We played well up until the final pass. Kaiserslautern though made space tight for us and had a lot of passion," said Bayern coach Louis van Gaal.
On Saturday, last season's runners-up Schalke 04 will hope to pick up their first points of the campaign when they host Hanover 96.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Joachim Loew announced squad for Euro qualifying
Published: 27 Aug 10 16:24 CET
German national football coach Joachim Löw has left captain Michael Ballack out of the team for the next two European championship qualifiers, raising further questions about his place in the squad.
The German Football Federation (DFB) announced on Friday that Ballack would not play next month's Euro 2012 qualifiers against Belgium and Azerbaijan.
Ballack, who technically remains Germany's captain despite having missed the World Cup in South Africa, is still recovering from an ankle injury, though he has played for his new club Bayer Leverkusen.
The decision to leave Ballack out underscores the ongoing tension over who will hold the job of German captain – Ballack or defender Philipp Lahm.
Coach Löw said he told Ballack of his decision by phone.
“It was a good, open conversation,” Löw said. “Michael is on a good track three months after his serious injury and everyone is pleased with the recovery. It is now important that he finds his optimal form in the coming weeks at Leverkusen.”
Lahm replaced Ballack for the recent World Cup after Ballack suffered a serious ankle injury at the hands of German-Ghanain player Kevin-Prince Boateng during the English FA Cup final.
With Ballack absent, Lahm is likely to retain the captaincy in next month’s qualifiers against Belgium and Azerbaijan.
Löw was in Dortmund last Sunday to see Ballack make his first appearance back in the Bundesliga after four years in the Premier League with Chelsea. His team Bayer Leverkusen beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0.
After his injury, Ballack only returned to training at the start of August and has played only a Bundesliga and Europa League match.
Looking ahead to the qualifiers, Löw said: "We want to win our first two games with the same football that we played at the World Cup."
The hot topic in the German media is the "C-frage" or who will captain Germany through their Euro 2012 campaign - Ballack or Lahm.
Ballack does not always cut a sympathetic figure: he is a dominant character and has clashed with both striker Lukas Podolski and team manager Oliver Bierhoff on the pitch during games for his country.
After former veteran midfielder Torsten Frings was dropped from the Germany squad in October 2008, Ballack accused Löw of not showing his senior players enough respect, but later apologised.
At that time, Ballack was in a powerful position as Germany's only true world-class player, while Löw was only two years into the job.
Two years on, Löw's position is far stronger, having guided a young Germany squad to third in South Africa, while Real Madrid's Sami Khedira is ten years younger than Ballack and is being groomed to replace him.
Lahm turns 27 in November and as well as being an outstanding defender, has a fresh-faced image and prefers to let his football speak for him.
Ballack is back in the Bundesliga after his four-year hiatus with Chelsea and is now under pressure to prove himself after failing to have his contract extended in London and losing his place in the Germany squad.
Germany has a Euro 2012 qualifier against Turkey at Berlin's Olympic Stadium on October 8 and then away to Kazakhstan on October 12. Should Ballack then be left out of the squad again, eyebrows will be raised.
Germany squad
Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Schalke 04), René Adler (Bayer Leverkusen), Tim Wiese (Werder Bremen)
Defenders: Holger Badstuber (Bayern Munich), Marcell Jansen (Hamburg), Philipp Lahm (Bayer Munich), Per Mertesacker (Werder Bremen), Sascha Riether (Wolfsburg), Heiko Westermann (Hamburg)
Midfielders: Sami Khedira (Real Madrid/ESP), Toni Kroos (Bayern Munich), Marko Marin (Werder Bremen), Mesut Özil (Real Madrid/ESP), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich), Christian Trasch (Stuttgart)
Forwards: Cacau (Stuttgart), Mario Gomez (Bayern Munich), Stefan Kiessling (Bayer Leverkusen), Miroslav Klose (Bayern Munich), Thomas Müller (Bayern Munich), Lukas Podolski (Cologne)
AFP/The Local (news@thelocal.de)
German national football coach Joachim Löw has left captain Michael Ballack out of the team for the next two European championship qualifiers, raising further questions about his place in the squad.
The German Football Federation (DFB) announced on Friday that Ballack would not play next month's Euro 2012 qualifiers against Belgium and Azerbaijan.
Ballack, who technically remains Germany's captain despite having missed the World Cup in South Africa, is still recovering from an ankle injury, though he has played for his new club Bayer Leverkusen.
The decision to leave Ballack out underscores the ongoing tension over who will hold the job of German captain – Ballack or defender Philipp Lahm.
Coach Löw said he told Ballack of his decision by phone.
“It was a good, open conversation,” Löw said. “Michael is on a good track three months after his serious injury and everyone is pleased with the recovery. It is now important that he finds his optimal form in the coming weeks at Leverkusen.”
Lahm replaced Ballack for the recent World Cup after Ballack suffered a serious ankle injury at the hands of German-Ghanain player Kevin-Prince Boateng during the English FA Cup final.
With Ballack absent, Lahm is likely to retain the captaincy in next month’s qualifiers against Belgium and Azerbaijan.
Löw was in Dortmund last Sunday to see Ballack make his first appearance back in the Bundesliga after four years in the Premier League with Chelsea. His team Bayer Leverkusen beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0.
After his injury, Ballack only returned to training at the start of August and has played only a Bundesliga and Europa League match.
Looking ahead to the qualifiers, Löw said: "We want to win our first two games with the same football that we played at the World Cup."
The hot topic in the German media is the "C-frage" or who will captain Germany through their Euro 2012 campaign - Ballack or Lahm.
Ballack does not always cut a sympathetic figure: he is a dominant character and has clashed with both striker Lukas Podolski and team manager Oliver Bierhoff on the pitch during games for his country.
After former veteran midfielder Torsten Frings was dropped from the Germany squad in October 2008, Ballack accused Löw of not showing his senior players enough respect, but later apologised.
At that time, Ballack was in a powerful position as Germany's only true world-class player, while Löw was only two years into the job.
Two years on, Löw's position is far stronger, having guided a young Germany squad to third in South Africa, while Real Madrid's Sami Khedira is ten years younger than Ballack and is being groomed to replace him.
Lahm turns 27 in November and as well as being an outstanding defender, has a fresh-faced image and prefers to let his football speak for him.
Ballack is back in the Bundesliga after his four-year hiatus with Chelsea and is now under pressure to prove himself after failing to have his contract extended in London and losing his place in the Germany squad.
Germany has a Euro 2012 qualifier against Turkey at Berlin's Olympic Stadium on October 8 and then away to Kazakhstan on October 12. Should Ballack then be left out of the squad again, eyebrows will be raised.
Germany squad
Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Schalke 04), René Adler (Bayer Leverkusen), Tim Wiese (Werder Bremen)
Defenders: Holger Badstuber (Bayern Munich), Marcell Jansen (Hamburg), Philipp Lahm (Bayer Munich), Per Mertesacker (Werder Bremen), Sascha Riether (Wolfsburg), Heiko Westermann (Hamburg)
Midfielders: Sami Khedira (Real Madrid/ESP), Toni Kroos (Bayern Munich), Marko Marin (Werder Bremen), Mesut Özil (Real Madrid/ESP), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich), Christian Trasch (Stuttgart)
Forwards: Cacau (Stuttgart), Mario Gomez (Bayern Munich), Stefan Kiessling (Bayer Leverkusen), Miroslav Klose (Bayern Munich), Thomas Müller (Bayern Munich), Lukas Podolski (Cologne)
AFP/The Local (news@thelocal.de)
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Friedrich set for surgery
WOLFSBURG, Germany — Wolfsburg's new German international signing Arne Friedrich revealed Wednesday he will undergo surgery on a herniated disc which will rule him out of action for up to three months.
Friedrich, a member of Germany's World Cup team which finished third in South AFrica, has been suffering from back problems since suffering a knock in training in early August.
"We have tried to cure the pain, but everything indicates that only surgery will indefinitely resolve the problem," said Friedrich.
The 31-year-old joined the 2009 Bundesliga champions last month for two million euros after spending most of his career with relegated Hertha Berlin.
The 76-times capped centre back is also set to miss four of Germany's Euro 2012 qualifiers.
Friedrich, a member of Germany's World Cup team which finished third in South AFrica, has been suffering from back problems since suffering a knock in training in early August.
"We have tried to cure the pain, but everything indicates that only surgery will indefinitely resolve the problem," said Friedrich.
The 31-year-old joined the 2009 Bundesliga champions last month for two million euros after spending most of his career with relegated Hertha Berlin.
The 76-times capped centre back is also set to miss four of Germany's Euro 2012 qualifiers.
Lahm wants new Bayern deal
GERMAN BUNDESLIGA
Lahm wants new Bayern deal
August 25, 2010
The 26-year-old, who captained his country at the World Cup in the absence of the injured Michael Ballack, is under contract at the Allianz Arena until 2012.
But Lahm, one of the most highly-rated full-backs in Europe, is keen to extend his stay.
"There will definitely be talks about my contract this season," he told the Bild newspaper. "I assume that the club will approach me.
"I can imagine signing for the long term, because as a player in the coming years at Bayern you will play for international titles."
Lahm wants new Bayern deal
August 25, 2010
The 26-year-old, who captained his country at the World Cup in the absence of the injured Michael Ballack, is under contract at the Allianz Arena until 2012.
But Lahm, one of the most highly-rated full-backs in Europe, is keen to extend his stay.
"There will definitely be talks about my contract this season," he told the Bild newspaper. "I assume that the club will approach me.
"I can imagine signing for the long term, because as a player in the coming years at Bayern you will play for international titles."
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Bayern Munich’s Philipp Lahm denies rift with Bayer Leverkusen's Michael Ballack over Germany captaincy
World Cup 2010 skipper insists there are no problems...
By Robin Bairner
20 Aug 2010 13:17:00
Injury forced Ballack out of the World Cup this summer, but after Lahm skippered die Mannschaft to the semi-final, in which they were narrowly beaten by Spain after extra-time, there has been widespread speculation that the full-back may get the nod on a permanent basis.
Lahm has therefore been forced to come out in the media to assure fans that there is no on-going feud between himself and Bayer Leverkusen veteran Ballack.
The Bayern Munich star, who has indicated his desire to retain the captaincy of the side, told German Eurosport: “For me, there is absolutely no problem. Neither of us have said anything serious. The next time I see Michael, everything will be normal.”
Germany’s European Championship campaign begins in September, by which time coach Joachim Loew will have had to have made a decision.
Last gasp win for champs
Two of Germany's World Cup heroes earned Bayern Munich a last-gasp victory over Steve McClaren's Wolfsburg in the opening game of the Bundesliga season at the Allianz Arena.
Bastian Schweinsteiger slid home an injury-time winner to condemn the former England boss to defeat in his first league game in charge.
Edin Dzeko had earlier cancelled out Thomas Muller's excellent ninth-minute opener.
Muller was one of the stars in South Africa, winning the Golden Boot as Germany reached the semi-finals, and he continued that form tonight with a fine piece of control and a volleyed finish.
The 20-year-old played a one-two with another member of that young German squad, Toni Kroos, back at Bayern after a spell on loan at Bayer Leverkusen, racing into the area to receive Kroos' dinked return pass, instantly controlling the ball as it came over his shoulder and then, as he held of defender Simon Kjaer, firing a low left-footed volley into the far right corner.
Muller, who scored five times at the World Cup, should have netted again in the 25th minute but could only fire over the top after Ribery's low cross from the left had found him unmarked beyond the back post.
Ribery was looking lively and his pass picked out left-back Diego Contento's run into the area and his shot towards the near bottom corner was saved smartly by goalkeeper Diego Benaglio.
The Wolves came out for the second half with far more purpose and were denied by the post within two minutes, Mario Mandzukic seeing his shot from just outside the area come back off the frame of the goal.
Bayern keeper Hans-Jorg Butt almost cost his side shortly after as his poor clearance presented the ball straight to half-time substitute Zvjezdan Misimovic.
The Bosnian shifted the ball on to his left foot to create an excellent shooting chance, but Butt's outstretched left foot deflected the ball away.
But Bayern's reprieve was short-lived as Dzeko, who was strongly linked with a move to Manchester City this summer, rose unmarked to head the resulting corner from Misimovic into the top corner in the 55th minute.
Dzeko then saw another effort tipped over the top by Butt before the hosts snatched the points at the death.
Ribery was again involved, sending in a cross from the left which had Benaglio scrambling across his goal and Schweinsteiger arrived at the far post to slide home the winner.
Bayern Munchen Star Miroslav Klose To Join Champions League Winners Inter Milan?
Angela Asante, August 19th, 2010
Now ahead of this encounter, Klose has become subject to transfer issues. It has been reported that the German forward, who is yet to break "Fat" Ronaldo’s FIFA World Cup goal record, is being eyed by UEFA Champions League titleholders Inter Milan.
Italian media Tuttomercatoweb declared that the Nerazzurri are looking to fill the gap created by the selling of Mario Balotelli to Manchester City. Inter Milan Coach Rafael Benitez reportedly has complaints over Brazilian striker Philippe Coutinho who has been used as a supplementary player in this position.
It is believed that the former Liverpool boss has set his eyes on Miroslav Klose and a deal could be imminent since the Bayern Munich player only has one year left on his contract. Having scored only three goals last season for Bayern, Miroslav Klose endured an unimpressive run of matches throughout the 2009/2010 campaign with his club.
Due to Arjen Robben and Ivica Olic’s unavailability through injury, striker Miroslav Klose is expected to start alone upfront for Bayern Munich when his side opens the 2010/2011 German Bundesliga season with a match against Wolfsburg on Friday.
Now ahead of this encounter, Klose has become subject to transfer issues. It has been reported that the German forward, who is yet to break "Fat" Ronaldo’s FIFA World Cup goal record, is being eyed by UEFA Champions League titleholders Inter Milan.Italian media Tuttomercatoweb declared that the Nerazzurri are looking to fill the gap created by the selling of Mario Balotelli to Manchester City. Inter Milan Coach Rafael Benitez reportedly has complaints over Brazilian striker Philippe Coutinho who has been used as a supplementary player in this position.
It is believed that the former Liverpool boss has set his eyes on Miroslav Klose and a deal could be imminent since the Bayern Munich player only has one year left on his contract. Having scored only three goals last season for Bayern, Miroslav Klose endured an unimpressive run of matches throughout the 2009/2010 campaign with his club.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Ozil signs for Real Madrid
SPANISH PRIMERA LIGA
August 17, 2010
GettyImages
Mesut Ozil: Germany playmaker
The playmaker, who helped Germany reach the semi-finals of the World Cup in South Africa, will undergo a medical in Madrid on Wednesday.
Earlier on Tuesday Werder claimed they would play Ozil in the Champions League on Wednesday, leaving him cup-tied, unless a deal was agreed in the next 24 hours.
"If a club is looking to sign Mesut to play Champions League, then that club needs to make a decision before Wednesday," Allofs said. "If Mesut Ozil is a player of Werder Bremen on Wednesday, we are going to play him against Sampdoria."
However, the 21-year-old did not take part in the club's final training session ahead of the clash as Real moved quickly to complete the deal.
Werder issue Ozil warning to Real Madrid
By Soccernet staff
August 17, 2010
Werder Bremen have warned Real Madrid that Mesut Ozil will play for the club in the Champions League on Wednesday evening unless a deal is agreed in the next 24 hours.
GettyImages
Mesut Ozil: Germany playmaker
Werder have already rejected a €9 million offer for Ozil, who starred for Germany at the World Cup finals earlier this summer, and unless Real return with an improved bid the playmaker will be cup-tied for the Champions League.
Klaus Allofs, the Bundesliga club's general manager, said: "The facts are pretty clear. If a club is looking to sign Mesut to play Champions League, then that club needs to make a decision before Wednesday. If Mesut Ozil is a player of Werder Bremen on Wednesday, we are going to play him against Sampdoria.
"We have not lined up any plan to not do that for whatever reason," Allofs told the Deutsche Presseagentur. "It would be up to Real Madrid to show up with the right answer to this all."
It is reported that Bremen are seeking €16 million for Ozil, who has also attracted interest from Barcelona and Manchester United this summer.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
LAHM RELAXED ABOUT CAPTAINCY
 |
 Lahm - relaxed. Bayern Munich full-back Philipp Lahm says losing the captain's armband to Michael Ballack would not reduce his authority in the national team. Lahm was named as Germany skipper during the World Cup after an injury ruled Ballack, who had held the job since 2004, out of the tournament. Germany coach Joachim Low has yet to decide who will lead the team onto the field in future with both Lahm and Ballack stating their desire to fulfil the role, but Lahm would not be overly distressed should the decision go against him. "I would carry on playing football as normal, just like before," he told the Bild newspaper. "And I would also carry on giving my opinion like normal. My authority in the team would not be any lower, even without the captain's armband." Nevertheless, the 26-year-old would rather carry on with the responsibility he was given in South Africa in the build-up to Euro 2012 and beyond. He said: "It is a great honour to represent your country, particularly when it is such a huge footballing nation like Germany. "I had this feeling when I wore the armband at the World Cup. I like taking responsibility. "I thoroughly enjoyed this role in South Africa, like I enjoy being vice-captain for Bayern Munich." |
Casillas heroics help Real beat Bayern
BAYERN MUNICH 0-0 REAL MADRID (REAL WIN 4-2 ON PENALTIES)
August 14, 2010
GettyImages
Iker Casillas won't hold a biggger trophy this season
It was the second time Mourinho had got the better of Louis van Gaal in a matter of months, following his success when Inter Milan manager in the Champions League final in May.
Holger Badstuber missed the best opportunity to break the deadlock in only the eighth minute when he saw his penalty saved by Casillas, who then got up to block Thomas Muller's follow-up. Bayern were close to getting a second penalty when Franck Ribery had his shirt tugged by Sergio Ramos just before he entered the area with just Casillas to beat in the 16th minute.
Madrid's response came in the 20th minute when Sergio Ramos sent Gonzalo Higuain through on goal, but Hans-Jorg Butt made a save with his legs. Marcelo's shot from the edge of the area missed Butt's left-hand post by inches as chances fell at both ends in a lively first half.
Casillas was at his best to tip Danijel Pranjic's dipping shot over the crossbar before Higuain slid in to reach a low cross from the left, but sent his effort wide of the post. And Casillas was on hand again to deny both Ribery and Miroslav Klose in one on one situations before the interval.
Madrid substitute Rafael van der Vaart should have scored in the 62nd minute when he placed his shot into the side netting from an angle with an open goal to aim at.
At the other end, Bastian Schweinsteiger's shot grazed the outside of Casillas' post before Karim Benzema's cross was met by Cristiano Ronaldo's header, but Bayern's back-up goalkeeper Thomas Kraft made an instinctive save to deny him and ensure the game was decided on penalties.
Ronaldo, Van der Vaart, Xabi Alonso and Benzema were all on target for Madrid, while, although Badstuber netted for Bayern, Hamit Altintop and Edson Braafheid missed.
Bremen reject Real's opening bid for Mesut Ozil
TRANSFER NEWS
August 14, 201
GettyImages
Mesut Ozil is refusing to discuss his future
Ozil, 21, was shortlisted for the Golden Ball award thanks to his impressive performances in South Africa and has attracted widespread interest in recent weeks, with his contract at Bremen expiring at the end of the current season.
Barcelona and Manchester United are believed to be keen on the playmaker but it is Real who have madde the first official move to sign Ozil by having an offer rejected on Friday night.
"We have received an unacceptable offer that does not even provide any basis for negotiations," director of sport Klaus Allofs said.
Real coach Jose Mourinho, who already has new signings Sergio Canales, Pedro Leon and Angel Di Maria at his disposal in midfield, confirmed after his side's friendly victory over Bayern Munich that he hopes to bring Ozil to the Bernabeu.
"He is a very good player and I would be delighted were he to come to us," Mourinho said. "Bremen have said no so we will have to see how things develop. If he comes, it would certainly be excellent. Ozil would definitely help us."
Friday, August 13, 2010
Werder to play Ozil in Champions League
By Soccernet staff
August 13, 2010
GettyImages
Mesut Ozil is refusing to discuss his future
Ozil, 21, has just one year remaining on his contract, but Werder insist they have yet to receive an offer for the player and are not anticipating his departure.
Allofs has now said that "nothing has changed" in regard to the player's future and suggested that Ozil is set to play for the club in Europe and therefore become ineligible for other sides in the Champions League for the remainder of the season.
"Our focus will be on sporting matters and we will not be giving consideration to potential transfer issues," he told Bild. "Against Sampdoria, we will play with our strongest team."
AS claims Ozil has already agreed to join Real Madrid when his deal expires but says Jose Mourinho has told the club he would be happy to see him arrive this summer.
Asked about the situation following training on Thursday, he told AS: "I won't be giving any interviews to anyone. I won't speak about Madrid or any other club."
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Friedrich:" It will be hard for Ballack."
New excitement: international Arne Friedrich supports Philipp Lahm as captain.
Who leads Germany to Euro 2012 as captain? Philipp Lahm (26) or Michael Ballack (33)? In 22 days, the DFB-selection will started for Belgium Qualification. By then Joachim Low will have make a decisions. For defender Arne Friedrich (31) which, like 15 other World Cup heroes who were missing at the match in Denmark, is clear: "If Ballack will remain captain, he has to play. But it is hard for him to slip back into the team because Schweinsteiger and Khedira have played a good World Cup. "
Frederick support his buddy! The ex-Hertha (79 caps) speaks out in favor of Lahm. Arne: "I can understand Michael, he has done much for German football. But Philip has made his case very well. "Already last week, the World Cup top scorer Thomas Müller (20) made strong support for his Bavarian colleague. "Philip was not only a right but an excellent captain at the World Cup." Ballack and Lahm - the players clearly stated more support for the defender. And what does the national coach Low, "I want things to consider conceptually, where the way to go for the next two, three or four years." A statement that speaks for Lahm. For the World Cup in Brazil 2014, Ballack as Frederick ("After the European Championships, it will exhausted for me") will be no longer there. Jogi added: "We have to address the issue seriously, and lead a serious discussion with stakeholders. Of course, they can continue to play together. "Probably not, if he makes Lahm the captain ...
Who leads Germany to Euro 2012 as captain? Philipp Lahm (26) or Michael Ballack (33)? In 22 days, the DFB-selection will started for Belgium Qualification. By then Joachim Low will have make a decisions. For defender Arne Friedrich (31) which, like 15 other World Cup heroes who were missing at the match in Denmark, is clear: "If Ballack will remain captain, he has to play. But it is hard for him to slip back into the team because Schweinsteiger and Khedira have played a good World Cup. "
Frederick support his buddy! The ex-Hertha (79 caps) speaks out in favor of Lahm. Arne: "I can understand Michael, he has done much for German football. But Philip has made his case very well. "Already last week, the World Cup top scorer Thomas Müller (20) made strong support for his Bavarian colleague. "Philip was not only a right but an excellent captain at the World Cup." Ballack and Lahm - the players clearly stated more support for the defender. And what does the national coach Low, "I want things to consider conceptually, where the way to go for the next two, three or four years." A statement that speaks for Lahm. For the World Cup in Brazil 2014, Ballack as Frederick ("After the European Championships, it will exhausted for me") will be no longer there. Jogi added: "We have to address the issue seriously, and lead a serious discussion with stakeholders. Of course, they can continue to play together. "Probably not, if he makes Lahm the captain ...
Danes fight back to claim draw
AP
Mario Gomez failed to find the net in South Africa but was first on the scoresheet against Denmark
| SCORING SUMMARY | |
| Denmark | Germany |
| Dennis Rommedahl (74) | Mario Gomez (19) |
| Mads Junker (87) | Patrick Helmes (73) |
| MATCH STATS | ||
| Denmark | Germany | |
| Shots (on Goal) | 25(8) | 18(8) |
| Fouls | 7 | 7 |
| Corner Kicks | 9 | 1 |
| Offsides | 1 | 1 |
| Time of Possession | 53% | 47% |
| Yellow Cards | 0 | 1 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 0 |
| Saves | 6 | 6 |
| MATCH INFORMATION |
| Stadium: Parken Stadion Attendance: 16,100 Match Time: 18:30 GMT Official(s): Alan Kelly (Referee) |
However, Dennis Rommedahl and Mads Junker struck back to ensure that Morten Olsen's side earned a draw in Copenhagen.
Both coaches were deprived of the majority of their regular first-team squads for this friendly match, which fell at an unfortunate time with domestic seasons on the verge of beginning and numerous players, mainly from the regular Germany squad, only just back in training following the World Cup.
Denmark's players have had a longer holiday this summer following their early elimination in South Africa and they looked fresher early on.
Daniel Agger went close with a header in the seventh minute before a succession of dangerous free-kicks from Christian Eriksen threatened Tim Wiese's goal.
Yet it was the visitors who went ahead with their first attack in the 19th minute.
Thomas Hitzlsperger was the provider, although his finely-threaded throughball seemed to be aimed at Toni Kroos, although it fell perfectly for Gomez to collect and place past Thomas Sorensen from 10 yards.
Denmark had the chance to level before the break when Rommedahl, making his 100th international appearance, was given the ball inside the area by Johnny Thomsen, but Wiese pushed his effort wide.
The hosts started with a flurry in the second half and Nicklas Pedersen was unfortunate to see his shot deflect off Jerome Boateng and be cleared off the line by Serdar Tasci.
Agger could only find the post when Wiese parried a free-kick from out wide in the 55th minute as Denmark continued to probe.
But Germany responded with their best spell of the game.
Aaron Hunt's 25-yard shot was pushed onto the outside of the post by Sorensen, who then gifted Gomez the chance to score a second, but the Bayern Munich striker lifted his shot over the crossbar from close range.
Helmes then took his first chance of the game shortly after coming onto the field to double Germany's advantage, beating Sorensen with a well-placed shot into the far corner after beating the offside trap.
However, Rommedahl took advantage of a defensive error from Christian Trasch to beat Wiese from the edge of the penalty area and give Denmark hope less than 60 second later.
And Junker completed the comeback with three minutes remaining, making the most of another defensive error, this time from Wiese, who was caught in two minds whether he could catch the ball right on the edge of his area and let the ball bounce down off his chest to the Danish striker.
Gomez had failed in a one-on-one with Sorensen moments earlier, but Denmark were good value for the draw, even though their goals were gifts from the Germany defence.
Mertesacker staying put
Werder Bremen defender Per Mertesacker insists he has no intention of leaving the club amid reported interest from Arsenal.
GettyImages
Per Mertesacker has pledged his future to Werder Bremen
Germany international Mertesacker, 25, has been frequently linked with a move to Emirates Stadium this summer as Arsene Wenger looks to shore up his defence ahead of the new season.
However, Mertesacker insists there has never been an approach from another club and says he has no intention of moving on.
"I'm staying at Bremen," Mertesacker told Bild. "There have been so many rumours concerning me, but I've never had to be concerned because none were concrete. I want to get back to training and enjoying football."
Werder general manager Klaus Allofs has also made clear the player will not be leaving the club, saying: "Per is staying - 100%."
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Werder deny Ozil move to Barcelona
August 10, 2010
Respected Spanish paper El Pais claimed on Tuesday that Barca had reached a tentative agreement with Werder to sign Ozil, 21, for €10 million, with the Germany international said to have prioritised a move to Camp Nou.
Allofs, though, claimed the rumours of an agreement with Barca were "nonsense" and said: "There is no agreement with Barca."
Werder's media director, Tino Polster, added: "There are no talks with and no offer from FC Barcelona."
When the player himself was asked about the move on Tuesday morning following training, he told Bild: "I know nothing. I have spoken to no one."
Despite the denials, Allofs has suggested that a deal to sell the player could progress in the near future.
Allofs told the Kreiszeitung Syke newspaper: "It is possible that there is now a bit of movement in the issue, but I am not running backwards and forwards to the fax machine or getting sweaty palms when I check my emails to see if maybe an offer has arrived."
Several top clubs in Europe, including Manchester United, Chelsea and Real Madrid, are said to be interested in Ozil and Sir Alex Ferguson refused to rule out a bid at the weekend, saying "I don't know" when asked if he was hopeful of signing the player.
GettyImages
Mesut Ozil has been linked with an array of clubs around Europe
Respected Spanish paper El Pais claimed on Tuesday that Barca had reached a tentative agreement with Werder to sign Ozil, 21, for €10 million, with the Germany international said to have prioritised a move to Camp Nou.
Allofs, though, claimed the rumours of an agreement with Barca were "nonsense" and said: "There is no agreement with Barca."
Werder's media director, Tino Polster, added: "There are no talks with and no offer from FC Barcelona."
When the player himself was asked about the move on Tuesday morning following training, he told Bild: "I know nothing. I have spoken to no one."
Despite the denials, Allofs has suggested that a deal to sell the player could progress in the near future.
Allofs told the Kreiszeitung Syke newspaper: "It is possible that there is now a bit of movement in the issue, but I am not running backwards and forwards to the fax machine or getting sweaty palms when I check my emails to see if maybe an offer has arrived."
Several top clubs in Europe, including Manchester United, Chelsea and Real Madrid, are said to be interested in Ozil and Sir Alex Ferguson refused to rule out a bid at the weekend, saying "I don't know" when asked if he was hopeful of signing the player.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
International Philipp Lahm meets children from the North
Enthusiastically welcomed soccer star Philipp Lahm at a camp in Mölln. No trace for fear of touch on both sides .
Mölln. For days they have been waiting for him. Prepared for his coming. Again and again in asking when he will finally stops by, their idol Philipp Lahm. On Thursday afternoon, the 80 participants of the Philipp Lahm summer camps have been surprised by his unannounced visit, "It was a great feeling," says Rayal, 11, from Bad Oldesloe. "And a surprise for everyone."
Enthusiastically greeted the national player at a camp, a youth hostel in Mölln. Everyone wanted to show him what they had worked in the past few days and experienced. And so the likeable footballer had fun interacting between the boys and girls, and patiently answered every questions. No trace for fear of touch on both sides . "I'm incredibly happy," he said after his tour of the camp. "And because you can see the enthusiasm and great joy in the eyes of children."
Philipp Lahm's summer camp was conceived by sports and social scientists. The focus of the program is for the children to develop their skills in the areas of nutrition, movement and personality. The aim is to discover their talents and interests of the participants. The camp, which is supported by the Foundation of the soccer player takes a week and was first organized in 2009 in Munich. In this year came as a second venue added a youth hostel near Hamburg. Half the participants were mediated by social institutions, giving away the other 40 seats on the evening paper.
"My goal is to organize the camps coverage over the whole of Germany, ," said Lahm, and one he remembers the enthusiasm for the project. But it is not an easy job, there are a lot to organize, attract partners for the action. "So we hope that we can get to next year, first at three sites Camps." Besides Munich and Hamburg, perhaps in a town in the middle of the republic.
Tat least he children are total enjoyed in the week . "This has made everything a lot of fun," said Farina, 10, from Sasel. She had already found right friends. "That I will take even after the end of the camp in Hamburg." And Stefan, 11, from Billstedt goes even further: "If I would have wished for something, I would hope that the camp is much longer," he says softly. "Ideally the whole holiday long."
Matthew looks more supportive for Captain Lahm
Munich (dpa) - capped player Lothar Matthaeus view at the issue of the German national team captain as more supporters for World Cup Captain Philip Lahm as for Michael Ballack.
"There are two outstanding players. Philipp Lahm did a great job at the World Cup and has the team also suppport. As for Michael Ballack is complicated because I can not see as everyone is for him, "Matthew said on the sidelines of a benefit match in Munich's Allianz Arena. For the coach is not an easy decision.
Ballack had shown what services he is able and he hope that the 33-year-old stay healthy and could again bring these benefits, said the DFB honorary captain. However, the one who switched to Bayer Leverkusen Ballack should also consider whether he can received multiple burden at his age. "I would think about it, at least in his place, "said Matthew.
Lahm, who, like many other World Cup stars does not travel to the friendly match this week to Denmark, restrained to talk about the question of captain. "The decision is all alone with the national coach. I told my views, I expressed that I would like to be captain, as the post is very much fun, "Lahm said in Munich. "It's nice to hear that something like Lothar Matthaeus says and sees me in the position, but no more or less."
"There are two outstanding players. Philipp Lahm did a great job at the World Cup and has the team also suppport. As for Michael Ballack is complicated because I can not see as everyone is for him, "Matthew said on the sidelines of a benefit match in Munich's Allianz Arena. For the coach is not an easy decision.
Ballack had shown what services he is able and he hope that the 33-year-old stay healthy and could again bring these benefits, said the DFB honorary captain. However, the one who switched to Bayer Leverkusen Ballack should also consider whether he can received multiple burden at his age. "I would think about it, at least in his place, "said Matthew.
Lahm, who, like many other World Cup stars does not travel to the friendly match this week to Denmark, restrained to talk about the question of captain. "The decision is all alone with the national coach. I told my views, I expressed that I would like to be captain, as the post is very much fun, "Lahm said in Munich. "It's nice to hear that something like Lothar Matthaeus says and sees me in the position, but no more or less."
Schaaf hopeful over Ozil
Werder Bremen boss Thomas Schaaf has said he believes Mesut Ozil is likely to stay at the club this summer.
Ozil, 21, has been linked with an array of clubs around Europe after his impressive performances for Germany at the World Cup, and Sir Alex Ferguson was in the stands at Craven Cottage on Saturday as Werder played Fulham in a pre-season friendly.
Reports from Spain on Sunday claim Barcelona have made enquiries about Ozil while Real Madrid have also been linked but, although the player will be out of contract next summer, Schaaf is cautiously optimistic that the player will remain at the club.
"(I) can't give you some new information, only that he is one player of Werder Bremen and he plays for Werder Bremen," he told Sky Sports News.
Asked if he expected Ozil to remain a Werder Bremen player by the close of the transfer window, Schaaf replied: "Yes, I think so, yes."
Defender Per Mertesacker has also been linked with a move away, with Arsenal said to be interested, but Schaaf dismissed talk he could leave.
"You know, now we are in the time of speculation," he said. "At the moment, the league doesn't play, so everybody is looking for some news and what could happen.
"You can be sure Per Mertesacker will play for Werder Bremen."
Ozil, 21, has been linked with an array of clubs around Europe after his impressive performances for Germany at the World Cup, and Sir Alex Ferguson was in the stands at Craven Cottage on Saturday as Werder played Fulham in a pre-season friendly.
Reports from Spain on Sunday claim Barcelona have made enquiries about Ozil while Real Madrid have also been linked but, although the player will be out of contract next summer, Schaaf is cautiously optimistic that the player will remain at the club.
"(I) can't give you some new information, only that he is one player of Werder Bremen and he plays for Werder Bremen," he told Sky Sports News.
Asked if he expected Ozil to remain a Werder Bremen player by the close of the transfer window, Schaaf replied: "Yes, I think so, yes."
Defender Per Mertesacker has also been linked with a move away, with Arsenal said to be interested, but Schaaf dismissed talk he could leave.
"You know, now we are in the time of speculation," he said. "At the moment, the league doesn't play, so everybody is looking for some news and what could happen.
"You can be sure Per Mertesacker will play for Werder Bremen."
Germany coach Loew rests most of the World Cup players for Denmark friendly
FRANKFURT — Germany coach Joachim Loew will rest most of his World Cup players for next week's friendly in Denmark.
The squad includes eight players who travelled to the World Cup but hardly played. Germany finished third at the tournament in South Africa.
Piotr Trochowski, one of the World Cup players, pulled out on Friday with an Achilles' tendon injury. Loew did not name a replacement.
Loew's 18-man squad does not include captain Michael Ballack, who missed the World Cup because of an ankle injury. Thomas Hitzlsperger returns after being left out of the World Cup.
Wednesday's match in Copenhagen will be Loew's first since he extended his contract by two years shortly after the World Cup.
Loew picked two newcomers, defender Sascha Riether of Wolfsburg and midfielder Marco Reus of Borussia Moenchengladbach.
Ballack has been training with Bayer Leverkusen but he has not played since getting injured in the FA Cup final in May, when he was still at Chelsea.
Loew left out all of his World Cup starters except goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Manchester City defender Jerome Boateng, who played several games, is also in the squad.
"It was clear from the start that we would leave out the established players," Loew said. "After the demands of the World Cup, it is important that they can now concentrate on preparing for the new season at their clubs."
Bayern Munich coach Louis van Gaal has questioned the necessity of the friendly so shortly after the World Cup, with most of the players only now returning from their late vacations. Other Bundesliga coaches also have criticized the timing of the match.
Loew picked only two Bayern players, midfielder Toni Kroos and striker Mario Gomez.
Apart from Gomez, there is only one other striker in the squad, Patrick Helmes of Bayer Leverkusen, who makes his comeback after a long-term knee injury.
"We chose the players that we had been observing even before the World Cup," Loew said.
The squad includes players who did not make the final cut for the World Cup.
___
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Schalke), Tim Wiese (Werder Bremen)
Defenders: Andreas Beck (Hoffenheim), Jerome Boateng (Manchester City), Sascha Riether (Wolfsburg), Marcel Schaefer (Wolfsburg), Christian Schulz (Hannover), Serdar Tasci (Stuttgart)
Midfielders: Christian Gentner (Stuttgart), Thomas Hitzlsperger (West Ham), Aaron Hunt (Werder Bremen), Toni Kroos (Bayern Munich), Marko Marin (Werder Bremen), Marco Reus (Borussia Moenchengladbach), Christian Traesch (Stuttgart)
Forwards: Mario Gomez (Bayern Munich), Patrick Helmes (Bayer Leverkusen)
The squad includes eight players who travelled to the World Cup but hardly played. Germany finished third at the tournament in South Africa.
Piotr Trochowski, one of the World Cup players, pulled out on Friday with an Achilles' tendon injury. Loew did not name a replacement.
Loew's 18-man squad does not include captain Michael Ballack, who missed the World Cup because of an ankle injury. Thomas Hitzlsperger returns after being left out of the World Cup.
Wednesday's match in Copenhagen will be Loew's first since he extended his contract by two years shortly after the World Cup.
Loew picked two newcomers, defender Sascha Riether of Wolfsburg and midfielder Marco Reus of Borussia Moenchengladbach.
Ballack has been training with Bayer Leverkusen but he has not played since getting injured in the FA Cup final in May, when he was still at Chelsea.
Loew left out all of his World Cup starters except goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Manchester City defender Jerome Boateng, who played several games, is also in the squad.
"It was clear from the start that we would leave out the established players," Loew said. "After the demands of the World Cup, it is important that they can now concentrate on preparing for the new season at their clubs."
Bayern Munich coach Louis van Gaal has questioned the necessity of the friendly so shortly after the World Cup, with most of the players only now returning from their late vacations. Other Bundesliga coaches also have criticized the timing of the match.
Loew picked only two Bayern players, midfielder Toni Kroos and striker Mario Gomez.
Apart from Gomez, there is only one other striker in the squad, Patrick Helmes of Bayer Leverkusen, who makes his comeback after a long-term knee injury.
"We chose the players that we had been observing even before the World Cup," Loew said.
The squad includes players who did not make the final cut for the World Cup.
___
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Schalke), Tim Wiese (Werder Bremen)
Defenders: Andreas Beck (Hoffenheim), Jerome Boateng (Manchester City), Sascha Riether (Wolfsburg), Marcel Schaefer (Wolfsburg), Christian Schulz (Hannover), Serdar Tasci (Stuttgart)
Midfielders: Christian Gentner (Stuttgart), Thomas Hitzlsperger (West Ham), Aaron Hunt (Werder Bremen), Toni Kroos (Bayern Munich), Marko Marin (Werder Bremen), Marco Reus (Borussia Moenchengladbach), Christian Traesch (Stuttgart)
Forwards: Mario Gomez (Bayern Munich), Patrick Helmes (Bayer Leverkusen)
Bayern Munich win Super Cup
FC Bayern Munich started the new season as the old one had ended with a domestic trophy. The German Bundesliga giants, who had last season won the German double of league and cup, beat FC Schalke 04 in the season opening German Super Cup 2-0 at the Impuls Arena in Augsburg.
Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich
Bayern were forced to play without an injured Arjen Robben, a Franky Ribery who is in rehabilitation and rested captain Mark van Bommel and keeper Hans Joerg Butt; but still late goals from 2010 FIFA World Cup heroes Thomas Mueller and Miroslav Klose gave the Bavarians the title in the reinstated Super Cup. The Super Cup had been discontinued after the League Cup had been instated as a season opener with six teams playing each other in a knockout tournament, but with too many matches and teams, the League Cup was unpopular with the clubs and the Super Cup was brought back to life.
Bayern Munich coach Louis van Gaal was expected to field a weaker side giving yunger players a chance with his World Cup stars only in training since earlier this week but Philipp Lahm, Holger Badstuber, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Thomas Mueller and Miroslav Klose all made the starting line-up. But with the stars missing a lot of eyes were on Spanish star Raul, who had joined FC Schalke 04 only a few days back. But it was Bayern Munich who had more of the ball in the first session, still they couldn’t utilise their possession as they played their usual passing game against a Schalke, who only a week back had beaten Bayern in a friendly tournament match at the Arena auf Schalke.
After the break Bayern Munich upped the tempo a bit and could have gone ahead in the 52nd minute as Klose hit the post, but in the 75th minute Bayern took the lead through Thomas Mueller who received the ball from Klose. Only six minutes later Klose would double the lead and seal the match off an Ivica Olic pass. The latest trophy for the Bayern Munich cupboards of silverware.
After the match Bayern coach Louis van Gaal said, “This team is better than last year’s because everyone knows what they have to do.”
While van Gaal’s counterpart Schalke 04 coach Felix Magath was more realistic about their chances this season. “You must see that we haven’t yet got the quality to beat a high-level team,” Magath said.
Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich
Bayern were forced to play without an injured Arjen Robben, a Franky Ribery who is in rehabilitation and rested captain Mark van Bommel and keeper Hans Joerg Butt; but still late goals from 2010 FIFA World Cup heroes Thomas Mueller and Miroslav Klose gave the Bavarians the title in the reinstated Super Cup. The Super Cup had been discontinued after the League Cup had been instated as a season opener with six teams playing each other in a knockout tournament, but with too many matches and teams, the League Cup was unpopular with the clubs and the Super Cup was brought back to life.
Bayern Munich coach Louis van Gaal was expected to field a weaker side giving yunger players a chance with his World Cup stars only in training since earlier this week but Philipp Lahm, Holger Badstuber, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Thomas Mueller and Miroslav Klose all made the starting line-up. But with the stars missing a lot of eyes were on Spanish star Raul, who had joined FC Schalke 04 only a few days back. But it was Bayern Munich who had more of the ball in the first session, still they couldn’t utilise their possession as they played their usual passing game against a Schalke, who only a week back had beaten Bayern in a friendly tournament match at the Arena auf Schalke.
After the break Bayern Munich upped the tempo a bit and could have gone ahead in the 52nd minute as Klose hit the post, but in the 75th minute Bayern took the lead through Thomas Mueller who received the ball from Klose. Only six minutes later Klose would double the lead and seal the match off an Ivica Olic pass. The latest trophy for the Bayern Munich cupboards of silverware.
After the match Bayern coach Louis van Gaal said, “This team is better than last year’s because everyone knows what they have to do.”
While van Gaal’s counterpart Schalke 04 coach Felix Magath was more realistic about their chances this season. “You must see that we haven’t yet got the quality to beat a high-level team,” Magath said.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Robben Out, Klose In Bayern Munich Will Roll On With Germanic Precision
By Bill Gardner (Member) on August 3, 2010
With the “shocking” news that Arjen Robben is still injured, not really shocking, as the injury occurred last season, and not with the Dutch National side in the World Cup as Van Gaal insinuates, Bayern Munich’s door just opened for Miroslav Klose to play more minutes out wide. This should also give young Austrian International David Alaba an opportunity to play some first team football.
Few teams in the world have the attacking depth of Bayern Munich at the moment, and having Miroslav Klose able to fill in for Robben should make Bayern better defensively, though Robben is a better attacking player from the wing, if you don’t mind his cutting it inside all the time. Where as Klose will work better with Muller at opening up the defenses in the Bundesliga.
If Bayern were like most clubs this would be a catastrophe, losing a world class winger on the eve of the season would panic many clubs and send them rushing to the transfer market. But this is not just any club it’s Bayern Munich, and they have the luxury of calling on Klose, Kroos or Tymoschuk or maybe even Alaba.
Alaba is the youngest player ever capped for Austria, and has been hailed as the savior of Austrian football. With pace, a magic left foot, and a tactical sense for the game unseen in any young players since well, last year’s call up of his Bayern youth side teammate Thomas Muller. Coaches say that Alaba shined brighter than even Muller. So, in typical German fashion Bayern will not panic, they will simply replace the part of the machine that is broken and stay on schedule.
By now you may get my point, Bayern is capable of producing stars from its youth side, and capable of buying players like Robben when required, and right now a winger is not required, a central defender would be nice, but a winger no Bayern have those just sitting around waiting for an opportunity to play.
Will Robben’s absence affect the outcome of the Super Cup against Raul and Schalke, yes it will his name will not appear on the team sheet it will instead read Klose, and in the 80th minute David Alaba.
You see Robben is a great player but he is prone to injury and suffers periods of discontent and the smart manager always has a few spare parts lying about for moments just like this one. Bayern are just fortunate enough to have Klose.
While Louis van Gaal is no fan of Klose’s preferring Robben to the German International, a right side with Lahm at the back, Klose in the middle and Muller up front is something most sides would sell their souls for just not van Gaal and Bayern Munich.
With the “shocking” news that Arjen Robben is still injured, not really shocking, as the injury occurred last season, and not with the Dutch National side in the World Cup as Van Gaal insinuates, Bayern Munich’s door just opened for Miroslav Klose to play more minutes out wide. This should also give young Austrian International David Alaba an opportunity to play some first team football.
Few teams in the world have the attacking depth of Bayern Munich at the moment, and having Miroslav Klose able to fill in for Robben should make Bayern better defensively, though Robben is a better attacking player from the wing, if you don’t mind his cutting it inside all the time. Where as Klose will work better with Muller at opening up the defenses in the Bundesliga.
If Bayern were like most clubs this would be a catastrophe, losing a world class winger on the eve of the season would panic many clubs and send them rushing to the transfer market. But this is not just any club it’s Bayern Munich, and they have the luxury of calling on Klose, Kroos or Tymoschuk or maybe even Alaba.
Alaba is the youngest player ever capped for Austria, and has been hailed as the savior of Austrian football. With pace, a magic left foot, and a tactical sense for the game unseen in any young players since well, last year’s call up of his Bayern youth side teammate Thomas Muller. Coaches say that Alaba shined brighter than even Muller. So, in typical German fashion Bayern will not panic, they will simply replace the part of the machine that is broken and stay on schedule.
By now you may get my point, Bayern is capable of producing stars from its youth side, and capable of buying players like Robben when required, and right now a winger is not required, a central defender would be nice, but a winger no Bayern have those just sitting around waiting for an opportunity to play.
Will Robben’s absence affect the outcome of the Super Cup against Raul and Schalke, yes it will his name will not appear on the team sheet it will instead read Klose, and in the 80th minute David Alaba.
You see Robben is a great player but he is prone to injury and suffers periods of discontent and the smart manager always has a few spare parts lying about for moments just like this one. Bayern are just fortunate enough to have Klose.
While Louis van Gaal is no fan of Klose’s preferring Robben to the German International, a right side with Lahm at the back, Klose in the middle and Muller up front is something most sides would sell their souls for just not van Gaal and Bayern Munich.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Philipp Lahm facebook update 01/08/2010
Phillip just says hello after a long while. He says a few words about the successful third place at the World Championship. The Honeymoon with his wife (!) was wonderful. They visited Spain and Greece. And he thanks for all your congratulations.Today was his first soccer training again - so the new season starts. And he hopes that the new season will be as successful as the last one.
And his sommer-Camp in Hamburg started. He's also going to visit his summercamp in Hamburg to greet the children there. Now he's back we will have more often his news!
Monday, August 2, 2010
Friedrich excited to get started
Published 16:31 02/08/10 By Pa Sports
Arne Friedrich has set his sights on Champions League football next season after taking part in his first training session as a Wolfsburg player.
The Germany international joined the Wolves this summer from Hertha Berlin and he trained for the first time with his new team mates and for the first time since the World Cup on Monday.
"After a difficult year in Berlin, the World Cup enabled me to clear my mind," he said. "Now I want to really get back into it with Wolfsburg. I want us to be right up there, within reach of the Champions League. The team is strong and I can see a lot of potential here."
Wolfsburg coach Steve McClaren is also delighted to have Friedrich at his disposal.
"Now I am finally able to work with the entire squad," said the Englishman.
"With his experience, Arne Friedrich will be a leading player. He strengthens our defence and I am convinced about his ability.
"Signing him for Wolfsburg was the right decision."
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