Frings hurt by Germany exclusion

(GSM) – Torsten Frings has revealed that his abrupt exclusion from the Germany squad is still hurting him.

The veteran midfielder was told by Germany coach Joachim Loew in January that his international career will go no further under his regime.

And despite Simon Rolfes, Michael Ballack and Christian Trasch being ruled out due to recent injuries, Frings has still missed out on a spot in the World Cup squad this summer.

“I am disappointed, not because of the current events, but for the way in which I was dealt with,” Frings told the Bild am Sonntag.

“To cut me off in a quick chat in January, without any official farewell, that hurt and it still hurts now.

“I am done with the national team. I have no contact whatsoever with the national team coach.”

But Frings still believes he is worthy of a seat on the plane to South Africa, adding: “In view of my overall ability, I should be included.”

When asked whether he feels his ability surpasses that of the players included in the squad, Frings said: “I have an opinion, but I don’t want to say anything bad about the lads.

“I am keeping my fingers crossed that they win the World Cup.

“My aim was to help them out, even if I was only back-up. I would have ended my international career after the World Cup anyway, but in a decent manner, not just in passing. Not in the way in which it has happened.”

Frings will now have to follow his country’s World Cup bid on television at home in Germany, and although he is hoping for a successful campaign, he has doubts over the strength of the side.

“The whole structure is on very weak foundations,” he said.

“Isn’t there a lack of young and old, talented and experienced?

“I know what is required in such a tournament.

“I am keeping my fingers crossed for the lads, but who, apart from (Philipp) Lahm or (Per) Mertesacker is going to be able to intervene if things are not quite right in the team?

“It is going to be tough against the likes of England, Argentina or Spain. You need strength in the tackle and tournament experience in those kind of games.”