Large swathes of Germany have been basking in unexpected sunshine this week, even though the north European nation had been preparing itself for the mists and chill of autumn. The capricious weather certainly seemed to reflect the national footballing mood, as golden oldies Michael Ballack and Torsten Frings have reported fit bang on time for a pair of crucial 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ qualifiers, spelling the end of a period of experimentation when youth was given a chance.
The UEFA EURO 2008 runners-up and Russia, the two biggest names in European qualifying Group 4, grapple in Dortmund on Saturday in a clash likely to have a significant bearing on the final outcome in the section. Following an unconvincing 3-3 draw away to Finland, in which a Miroslav Klose hat-trick spared the blushes of a makeshift line-up rocked by injuries, Germany boss Joachim Low is both relieved and delighted to welcome back his battle-hardened warriors for the potentially pivotal showdown.
The tangible relief in the Germany camp at the return of the two top-notch midfielders also serves to highlight Low’s main medium-term dilemma. With just over 600 days to go until the Opening Match in 2010, the national head coach is short of options, as he confessed to reporters gathered at German FA (DFB) headquarters: "I need more leaders!"
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