Kahn backs goalkeeping rival

Oliver Kahn has tried to console Jens Lehmann after Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper became the first player to be sent off in a Champions League final.

Lehmann saw red in the 18th minute of Arsenal’s 2-1 loss to Barcelona last night after bringing down Samuel Eto’o just outside the penalty area.

But Kahn, who was pipped by Lehmann for the starting spot in Germany’s World Cup squad, is confident his rival for the number one jersey will bounce back.

“I have no doubt Jens is strong enough mentally to get over it,” Kahn said at Germany’s training camp in Sardinia.

“Such things happen in football. He needs to forget about it as soon as possible.

“It can be compared to a car accident – when people remember it every time they drive past the scene where it happened. But it is psychological rubbish if you think such things will happen all the time now.”

Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann criticised the referee for his decision to dismiss Lehmann.

“It would have been right to allow the goal and give Jens a yellow card,” said Klinsmann. “I am sure he will be over it once the (World Cup) tournament starts.”