Germany fit to go all the way

American fitness coach Shad Forsythe is sure Germany have the "physical fitness they need to win the title" as they face a crucial tie against Austria.

Fit side
After winning their opening game against Poland 2-0, Joachim Löw's side went down 2-1 against Group B winners Croatia, and must now get the better of the co-hosts in Vienna on Monday if they are to progress to the last eight. Forsythe, who works on fitness along with with Oliver Schmidtlein, is sure they have the stamina to win that game and more. "Our players have learned from the mistakes made in the Croatia game and are determined not to make them again," he said. "We have a chance to win this tournament and I have every faith in my team. This side definitely have the physical fitness they need to win the title."

Dual role
Forsythe says his job has two key facets at a finals tournament. "The main problem for us fitness trainers is that we basically have two different teams to prepare for the games," he said. "On one side we have that part of the squad who have played and on the other side, those who were rested. The preparation phase is of course very different for both groups. One group you need to motivate and get fired up and for the others it's about recharging the batteries and getting them re-energized in time for the next game. We are doing everything in our power to ensure the players will be up for the task on Monday. They are working concertedly on their shortcomings and doing some work on the exercise bikes to regenerate, taking ice-baths, doing some stretching, some aerobics or specialised exercises."

Ballack impresses
Some players, of course, are fitter than others, and for Forsythe, one Germany star stands above all others in terms of fitness, though he is not short of competition. "If you take a look at the players' statistical ratings, also from their league games, then it is clear to see that Michael Ballack, in the English Premier League, covers more ground and makes more sprints than any other player," he said. "With that in mind, I would say he is one of the fittest at the tournament. There are others too, such as Philipp Lahm, Miroslav Klose, Mario Gómez and Torsten Frings who are in excellent physical condition."