Departure won’t weaken Germany: Stan

REPUBLIC of Ireland manager Steve Staunton has downplayed the significance of Jurgen Klinsmann’s departure as boss of Euro 2008 opponents Germany.

Klinsmann, who guided the side to third place in the World Cup, stepped down from the position yesterday.

Joachim Löw, Klinsmann’s assistant, has been appointed as the new coach and has signed a two-year contract.