World NewsLehmann Coy Over Future |
Veteran goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has refused to announce his retirement from international football.
The 38-year-old Stuttgart stopper, who was expected to hang up his gloves after Euro 2008, believes there is no reason for him to call time on his Germany career.He said: "I heard about all this generation-change in goal while on holiday and that I should explain my position, but I ask myself why should I reach a decision anyway?
"I will talk with (Germany coach) Joachim Low."
Low will give an indication of whether Lehmann has an international future when he names his next squad in mid-August, but before then the keeper is keen to focus on preparations for the Bundesliga season.
Stuttgart won the Bundesliga title in 2007, but are not among the favourites this time round.
However, the former Arsenal goalkeeper, who started pre-season training on Thursday, believes though the Swabians can upset the odds once again.
"I have read that the first three places in the Bundesliga are already given to Bayern (Munich), Schalke and (Werder) Bremen but only the order is not clear," he said.
"For the other clubs, including VfB, this should be a challenge.
"I always want to win the next game and, if you manage that, then you have got everything right."
Lehmann is hoping to make his Stuttgart debut when Arsenal visit the Mercedes-Benz Arena next Wednesday.
"I obviously hope to play against my former club Arsenal," he said. "I have to test myself a bit first to see how I am, but I think I can be fit enough in a week.
"I am definitely looking forward to it because there are things that I will miss after leaving London - friends and a few team-mates - but this is the way this business is and we wanted to move back to Germany with our family."
Copyright (c) 2008 Press Association
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