Klinsmann wants Kahn out, says Maier

Uli Lichten

Bayern Munich custodian Kahn looked a glum figure on the substitutes’ bench as Arsenal’s Jens Lehmann stood between the sticks for Germany’s 2-2 draw with Argentina on Wednesday.

“Klinsmann wants to bring an end to Kahn but he will not manage it,” said Maier.

“The way he is treating the elder players is the lowest of the low. I would have gone crazy if someone said to me: ‘You are playing really well but you are on the bench’,” he said.

“Lehmann has been on the bench at Arsenal for the past 12 games, plays once and then he is in the national team.”

Kahn was stripped of the captaincy by Klinsmann, who opted for Michael Ballack, but the 35-year-old has refused to come out and publicly criticise the coach. “Oliver wants to be in goal for the 2006 World Cup and that is why he is keeping quiet,” continued Maier. “But deep down Klinsmann must know he cannot win the World Cup without Kahn.”

Klinsmann removed Maier as Germany’s goalkeeping coach, accusing him of being biased towards Kahn.

Lehmann said: “One week ago I was sitting on the bench against Manchester United and here I am seven days later having played two matches. It’s a pleasant surprise and I’m very happy. I’ve always said I’ll be playing again soon and getting a chance.”

He is hopeful he will keep his place in Arsenal’s goal when he returns to Germany for the Champions League match with Bayern Munich on February 22.

“It’s still two weeks until the Munich match. Speaking from experience, I’m just happy to appear in the next game for Arsenal,” he added.

“We’ll see what happens. There have been many surprises in my playing career.”