Reus hailed after debut goal

Holger Badstuber has hailed the impact of Marco Reus following his impressive display in Germany’s Euro 2012 quarter-final win over Greece.

Reus, who has signed with his boyhood club Borussia Dortmund from Borussia Moenchengladbach in a 17.5-million-euro deal, scored Germany’s final goal in their convincing 4-2 victory over Greece.

When interviewed after the game, Bayern Munich centre-back Badstuber praised the 23-year-old playmaker, who was making his competitive debut for Germany.

He also cited the influence of Real Madrid midfield pairing Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira.

“He (Reus) is a superb footballer. He got his chance tonight and he proved himself,” Badstuber told reporters.

“He is a great guy and I am happy that he rewarded himself with a goal.

“They (Ozil and Khedira) are very important for us, obviously. They play in a central position.

“Sami, as a defensive player, is very important.

“Ozil sacrifices himself for the team. There are moments where he is a genius. (On Friday) he only forgot to reward himself by scoring a goal.”

Badstuber also revealed why he hopes to play the Three Lions in the semi-final.

“(I would) Rather England. Why? They suit us better.”

Miroslav Klose also hailed the influence of Reus, and answered whether his side are able to change approach depending on their opponents.

“Absolutely. And that is what we need,” he said.

“Just take a look at Marco, who came in today and played outstandingly.”

And the Lazio man admitted he was glad to be back in the starting line-up.

“It was nice (to start the game). I was happy and I tried to have a good match and help the team as much as I could,” he said.