Loew wants renewed focus

Joachim Loew has urged his Germany players to move on from their heartbreaks in 2012 and channel their energy into the year ahead.

Germany won plaudits after qualifying unbeaten for Euro 2012, but they suffered a 2-1 loss at the hands of Italy in the semi-final of the tournament before squandering a four-goal lead to draw against Sweden in a friendly in October.

When quizzed about Germany’s future prospects, the coach admitted the spine of the team needs to strengthen, but maintained his belief they win the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

“(2013 will be) the year of concentration. We have to get a few more percent out of this team,” Loew told Bild.

“We must do everything to improve our resilience, and by doing this, Germany can look forward to World Cup 2014.”

“If something unexpected happens, we have often had a problem (dealing with it). We’ve had our hand caught on the hot stove and it’s burned us.”