Banned Boateng offers German inspiration

Despite being suspended, Jerome Boateng said he will help to inspire Germany for their Euro 2012 date with Denmark.

The 23-year-old picked up yellow cards in both of his nation’s games so far, meaning that he will miss the final Group B game against the second-placed Danes, in which they need just a point to secure progression.

The Bayern Munich man admitted that it is a blow to be unavailable for the deciding game, but assured supporters he will still do his bit by visiting the team before kick-off to make sure they are raring to go

He told reporters: “I’m disappointed that I can’t play. The coach has done everything right.

“I can only watch, but I will motivate the players before the game, wish them the best. Every player knows what it’s about, it’s a very difficult game and we want to do our best.”

If Joachim Loew’s men get at least a point on Monday then they will face the second-placed team in Group A, which is still wide open.

The centre-back said that to win the competition you have to be able to beat anyone, but facing the co-hosts would be extra special for Poland-born members of their squad such as Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose.

“If you want to go far, you’ll have to win against anyone,” he said.

“Of course against the Poles it would be a good thing for us, for Miro (Klose), for Lukas.

“It doesn’t really matter.”

Germany also faced Poland in the group stage of Euro 2008, and won 2-0 courtesy of two strikes from Podolski.