Germany set for changes

Germany officials are expected to announce this morning that Jurgen Klinsmann has decided not to continue as coach of the national side.

Klinsmann led Germany to third place in the World Cup, exceeding expectations prior to the tournament they hosted.

After winning their three group games – and scoring eight goals in the process - Germany reached the semi-finals following a convincing victory over Sweden and a penalty shoot-out triumph over Argentina.

Two late goals against eventual champions Italy knocked Germany out of the tournament, although their performances had led to calls for Klinsmann to stay as coach.

However, at a press conference in Frankfurt this morning the announcement of his departure is expected to be confirmed.

Gerhard Mayer-Vorfelder, co-president of the German Football Federation, is quoted on BBC Sport Online to have said: “I regret his decision, but we have to accept it.”

Klinsmann lives in California – which led to initial criticism before the World Cup was under way – and it remains unclear what his next move will be or if he will remain in football.

Franz Beckenbauer was among those imploring Klinsmann remain in the position.

Beckenbauer, the former German captain and coach and now president of the World Cup organising committee, said last week: “The fans like him, the players like him and I hope he stays on.”