Loew seeking German perfection

Germany coach Joachim Loew is determined to see his side perfect their style of play in 2013.

Loew’s team have won widespread acclaim for their attractive football since the former Stuttgart boss took over, but have consistently fallen short at critical moments in big tournaments.

“We must, and we will, develop as a team (in 2013),” Loew told the German Football Association website.

“That’s what I’m working on with Hansi Flick, Andreas Kopke and Oliver Bierhoff. We have sometimes lacked the final thing.

“We have almost unique potential going forward. We have found our style of play, but we haven’t perfected it.

“The best thing for me are the tournaments. In the finals, we have the chance to compete with the best in the world.

“I don’t see this as pressure, but as an opportunity and as motivation. Of course, we set the highest goals. As athletes, we must have the goal of winning the World Cup – that would be the greatest.

“If we don’t win the 2014 world title, we’ll be disappointed.”

However, the 52-year-old went on to reject suggestions that 2012 had been a disappointment, despite the European Championship semi-final exit to Italy back in June.

“I don’t feel that way, personally. The disappointment of the Italy game was huge for everyone, mainly because we didn’t realise our full potential,” Loew said.