Defensive worry for Germans

GERMANY have major defensive problems ahead of tomorrow night’s Group D qualifier against Ireland.

Coach Joachim Loew is missing four centre-backs while right-back Arne Friedrich is doubtful. Loew is keen to move on from Germany’s unexpected semi-finals showing this summer and wants to maintain the momentum.

“The World Cup is over and we must inspire a new form of euphoria now,” Loew said.