Bayern Munich striker Lukas Podolski says he is fully
focused on fighting for his place in the team – but has not ruled
out a January move.
With boss Jurgen Klinsmann using Luca Toni and Miroslav Klose as
his preferred strike partnership, the Germany star has not been
able to break into the team.
And Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has criticised the
player for his attitude, saying he must start concentrating on the
team rather than his own ambitions.
Rumminegge said: “I do not understand what he wants. I demand
that he is committed to Bayern and does everything he can to help
the club.
“He has a contract until June 2010 – he should focus on
that.”
But while Podolski insists the chairman has the right to
criticise his players, he stopped short of committing his future to
the club.
“Mr Rummenigge has the right to criticise his players,” he told
Bild.
“I can only say that I am fully focused on Bayern. It is a
difficult situation for me, but I am clear about that.
“Sure, I would like to play from the start sometimes. At the
moment, I am not concerning myself with anything else.
“I don’t think I will make a decision until the winter.”
Podolski remains a key player for Germany and, having linked up
with the national team for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, he
admits he is happy for a change of scene.
“It does me good to free myself,” he said.
“When you play the full 90 minutes, you automatically play in a
different way.
“(Germany coach) Jogi Low is convinced of my qualities – just
like me. We both know what I can do.”
Man Citeh? 