Neuer insists Germany do not have a striker problem

Manuel Neuer is adamant Germany do not have a striker problem following the withdrawal of Mario Gomez due to injury.

The reigning world champions are lacking a traditional striker for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Czech Republic and Northern Ireland following Gomez’s injury, with either Kevin Volland, Mario Gotze or Thomas Muller now expected to start up front.

Nevertheless, Neuer sees no reason for concern and is adamant Germany still have plenty of players who can score.

“It is obviously a shame that Mario Gomez is missing up front, but we have a lot of players who can score goals,” Neuer said at a media conference.

“We are flexible and have a number of options in attack. And we have defenders who can score from set pieces as well. I hope we will see a bit of both. And it would obviously be a confidence boost for our attackers if they can score.

“We have two important games ahead of us and want six points from them. It is important to have a clear goal and our objective is to finish first in our group.”

Neuer also had his say on Joachim Low’s future as Germany coach following the latter’s comments that he is not interested in coaching in the Bundesliga if he ever leaves his current position.

“It is the coach’s decision what he will do in the future,” Neuer added.

“But it is clear that we all like him as the national team coach. He has a lot of experience and keeps adapting his style depending on how the game changes.

“He has really taken the national team to another level. He is a successful and modern coach. A lot of coaches don’t change, but he always has new ideas.”