Neid recalls teenage talent
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
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Célia Okoyino da Mbabi is back in the Germany squad for the first time in more than a year as the holders look to book UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2009™ qualification.
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Return earned
The 19-year-old SC 07 Bad Neuenahr midfielder last played for Germany in a 1-0 Algarve Cup defeat by Italy in March 2007 but a broken shinbone then left her sidelined, not least for the FIFA Women's World Cup in September. But she has now returned as Germany seek a sixth victory in as many Group 4 fixtures. "Célia has been back in full training since the beginning of the year," said coach Silvia Neid. "She has worked very hard ever since and this now shows in her performances."
Qualification chance
Neid has also recalled Kerstin Garefrekes and Fatmire Bajramaj after injury and has selected striker Conny Pohlers ahead of 1. FFC Frankfurt team-mate Petra Wimbersky. "Both are performing equally well at the moment," Neid said. "We picked Conny because along with Birgit Prinz she has been more prominent at Frankfurt." If Switzerland cannot win in Belgium on 27 April, a sixth victory in as many Group 4 qualifiers would ensure Germany's place in next summer's finals in Finland as they bid for a fifth straight title. "We expect Belgium to defend compactly and deeply, which is why we need precise and quick passing and lots of movement off the ball," Neid added.
