Ambitious Rensing steps out of Kahn´s shadow

Bayern Munich's goalkeeper Michael Rensing admits he will be glad to finally step out of Oliver Kahn's shadow after five years on the sidelines as he targets a place in the Germany team.

The 24-year-old joined Bayern's senior squad in 2003, but has only made 23 Bundesliga appearances in the last five seasons with former Germany captain Kahn dominating Bayern's number one shirt.

But after Kahn retired in May, Rensing is ready to take his place in goal and with ex-Arsenal shot-stopper Jens Lehmann, 38, approaching the end of his career in the Mannschaft, Rensing wants a place in Joachim Loew's Germany team.

“If you perform well as Bayern goalkeeper, you're bound to be in the frame for the national team,” said Rensing.

“But first of all, my focus is on Bayern, although obviously my dream is to play for Germany at some point.”

And having so often sat on Bayern's bench, Rensing is relishing the chance to take his place in the first-team.

“I've spent so long yearning for this moment, and it's arrived at last,” he said with a smile.

“This is a dream come true for me.

“That's why I'll be giving it even more effort than ever.

“Obviously there'll be more focus on me than before.

“A completely different season lies ahead for me personally.

“But in any case, I'm the most demanding critic of my own performances.”

And new Bayern coach Jurgen Klinsmann has already said Rensing is his first-choice goalkeeper with former international Hans-Joerg Butt as his back-up and mentor.

“Michael is undisputed number one,” said former Germany boss Klinsmann who started as Bayern coach on Monday.

“We're looking to help him develop, and we'll give him the time and the support he needs.

“He can become an outstanding goalkeeper, both here and internationally.”

And Rensing is hoping he can keep his unbeaten run for as long as possible – in all of his 23 Bundesliga appearances he has yet to be on the losing side.