Beckenbauer: Robben must be fit

Bayern Munich president Franz Beckenbauer says winger Arjen Robben will only be offered a new deal if he is fit.

The Dutch international is an important player for Jupp Heynckes’ side, but has had an injury-prone year in 2011, and is currently recovering from a hernia operation.

With Robben’s current contract at the Allianz Arena due to run out in June 2013, Beckenbauer has admitted that the club may go into contract extension talks cautiously because of the former Chelsea player’s fitness problems.

“It depends. We do not know how long his injury sensitivity persists. In his first season at Bayern, he was sensational and rarely injured. We (will) have to see how he comes back,” the 66-year-old told TZ.

The former Germany sweeper did admit that Robben was an integral part of the Bavarians’ first-team, and scintillating when fit.

“When Arjen is fit, he is the best in his position in the world. So, if he still is somewhat good, I would immediately (offer) an extension to him,” Beckenbauer said.

“It’s great that the team are doing well without him. The discussion about whether Bayern (are) better without Robben is absurd. Of course the team (is) better with him.”