Del Bosque heaps praise on ´elegant´ Loew

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque has applauded Joachim Loew for his ‘elegant’ approach to leading Germany back among the international elite.

The 52-year-old originally assumed the role of assistant under Jurgen Klinsmann between 2004 and 2006, but was promoted to head coach after the World Cup six years ago.

He subsequently led Germany to a runners-up place at Euro 2008 and secured a third-placed finish in South Africa.

Del Bosque, who could face Loew in a second consecutive European final in Poland and Ukraine, was lost for superlatives when describing his opponent, and sees no reason why he could not go on to coach either Barcelona or Real Madrid one day should the opportunity arise.

“He is an elegant man who represents his country very well,” the Spaniard said.

“He has done a job at club and international level.

“Real Madrid and Barcelona would certainly not be too big for him.”

Del Bosque went on to claim that Loew’s side have no weaknesses and reserved special praise for prolific striker Mario Gomez.

“Germany have been playing football at a very high level,” Del Bosque said. “Their fighting spirit is unique. They are a fantastic team.

“I cannot think of any weaknesses. They are very good defensively, while Mario Gomez is a giant in attack.

“He has sent the eternal Miroslav Klose to the bench, and that certainly means something.”