Forward thinking for Germany

Osieck not involved
Oliver Bierhoff has been made team manager in a supporting role to new head coach Jürgen Klinsmann, his former international strike partner, who was appointed on a two-year contract at the start of the week. The pair were presented today at the DFB headquarters in Frankfurt, although Holger Osieck, part of the West Germany set-up from 1984-90, will not be involved having turned down a coaching post.

'Hopes and expectations'
DFB president Gerhard Mayer-Vorfelder said: "I admire both for their commitment and ambition. A lot of hopes and expectations now rest on their shoulders. An assistant coach is still to be found." Germany are next in friendly action on 18 August against Austria in Vienna before taking on world champions Brazil in Berlin on 8 September.

Two-year contract
Klinsmann, who replaces Rudi Völler after he stepped down following the country's early exit at UEFA EURO 2004™, will take sole charge of team affairs. Bierhoff, 36, will handle all dealings with the media and sponsors as well as forging relations with Bundesliga clubs and players. Like Klinsmann, who turns 40 tomorrow, Bierhoff has a two-year deal.

'Full of ambition'
"It is a very emotional moment," said Bierhoff. "I am very happy and full of ambition. We are both strikers and we will face this challenge on the front foot. I see myself as a link between the team, the players, the clubs and also the media. I will be a help for Jürgen. I will not interfere in team and selection matters."

'Big honour'
Klinsmann said: "It is a big honour for me. I am aware that it is a big challenge. Two weeks ago I could not have contemplated having so much responsibility. My aim is to win the World Cup in 2006. We have the potential to do something like Greece achieved in the [UEFA] European Championship. My first task is to build up a coaching team."