FRANCE 98 – Statements from GERMANY (Group F) team players – Wednesday 24 June 1998

Comments from the Charles Ehrmann stadium in Nice

“The whole team had a get-together without the coach and we talked about earlier matches which we found rather disappointing. I find that a team that lives together and has a common objective should be able to communicate and discuss problems. Exchanges should always be positive.

Concerning our game, I think that we weren’t aggressive enough against YUGOSLAVIA (Group F). The Yugoslavs, however, put us under pressure and gave us a hard time. The result was that we often found ourselves playing on top of each other which is why Lother MATTHAUS (8) has been called up. Our left flank is also doubtful but I don’t think we should change the team and start from scratch again. There should be a certain amount of continuity.”

“I was very disappointed with my performance during the match against the USA. This is why I accepted being on the bench against YUGOSLAVIA. I hope I get another chance to prove that I’m better than that.”