Lahm targeting semis

(GSM) – Germany’s new captain Philipp Lahm has revealed that he is targeting a place in the World Cup semi-finals for his team this summer.

The Germans, who have not won the showpiece tournament since triumphing in 1990, have had a less-than-ideal preparation for South Africa.

Michael Ballack’s injury in the FA Cup final means he will play no part in the competition, handing the armband to full-back Lahm.

Along with Ballack, Heiko Westermann, Rene Adler, Simon Rolfes and Christian Trasch are also sidelined as the list of injuries grows longer for Joachim Loew’s men.

But Lahm is still optimistic of his side’s chances of success, and the semi-final stage he feels would be an acceptable milestone.

“The fact that we have lost players who are enormously important for us is a shame,” said the Bayern Munich defender.

“But we still have a top squad which can go far.

“Clearly our goal as the German national team is to reach the semi-finals. And clearly we also dream of more.”

Germany have been handed a difficult draw for South Africa, as they will play in Group D alongside Serbia, Ghana and Australia.