Flick sure of German progression

Germany assistant coach Hansi Flick is confident his side will progress to the Euro 2012 knockout stages, despite their tough group.

The Euro 2008 finalists were drawn alongside Netherlands, Denmark and Portugal in the so-called Group of Death, and although the 47-year-old is aware of the threat posed to his side, he is confident of booking a quarter-final berth.

“It’s very important to win the first game of the tournament. We are sure that we will advance past the group stage. But you have to be there from the first moment,” Flick said in a press conference.

“We expect Portugal to be on eye-level (with Germany). Nani and (Cristiano) Ronaldo are always good for surprises.”

Flick confirmed that Joachim Loew has a full squad to choose from for the Group B clash against Paulo Bento’s men, despite initial doubts over the fitness of some players.

“All of the players are fit, including Per Mertesacker, who had some problems after training yesterday,” he said.

Flick, a former Bayern Munich midfielder, backed Real Madrid star Mesut Oezil to have a big future in the game, and praised the 23-year-old’s progress in his career to date.

“He has made a great development,” Flick said. “He can always decide a game with his great skills. He will win titles.”