FRANCE 98 – Germany – B. Vogts: “Matthaus has a very positive attitude towards the rest of the team”

Statements made at Saint Paul de Vence (Alpes Maritimes County)

“We are trying to learn some lessons from our match with the USA (Group F) in order to improve our organisation.

Our defence wasn’t up to scratch. Thomas HASSLER (10) and Andy MOLLER (7), despite having an offensive temperament, also have an important defensive role. This is the case with all midfielders playing on an international level. The defenders should also do more to help and back-up our midfield. Jens JEREMIES (13) is very useful at regaining possession.

I’m particularly happy to have a player in our ranks with the clout of Lothar MATTHAUS (8). He has a very positive attitude towards the rest of the team. He trains very hard and is a good example to the others. On top of that, he holds the record for international selections in the GERMANY team, and thus inspires respect.

I hope Franz Beckenbauer is telling the truth when he says that the “Mannschaft” was only playing at 60% capacity.

The day we come up against a top level team, the errors we made in PARIS will be synonymous with elimination!”