We have nothing to fear: Ramelow

Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Carsten Ramelow believes the Germans have nothing to fear against Real Madrid.

Vicente del Bosque’s side boasts some of the world’s best players, including Zinedine Zidane, Raul and World Player of the Year Luis Figo.

But the Germans have overcome huge obstacles on their way to tomorrow night’s Champions League final in Glasgow, disposing of Liverpool and Manchester United along the way.

And Ramelow sees no reason why Bayer Leverkusen cannot pull off one more shock and deny the Spanish giants the opportunity to win silverware this season.

He said: ‘‘There is nothing better for a player than being in the final stages of such a competition.

‘‘I have already played Real Madrid several times in the past so I know how strong they can be.

‘‘But I think we have an opportunity because we are a strong team and I feel optimistic.

‘‘We really do not have much to fear - it will be difficult of course but we have to concentrate on getting the cup for Leverkusen.’’

Ramelow admits pre-match nerves will begin to take hold in the hours before kick-off.

But he is hoping to put the tension to the back of his mind in a bid to give the team’s supporters Europe’s top trophy in the wake of their Bundesliga disappointment, when they finished just one point behind leaders Borussia Dortmund.

He added: ‘‘I keep telling myself not to get any nerves because I should be relaxed, but you do build up tension before the game.

‘‘Tomorrow the tension will be at the highest point so we need to make sure we have the right attitude.

‘‘I am confident that we can give it everything we have on Wednesday night.’’