Lahm set for Robben duel

Phillip Lahm is looking forward to facing Bayern Munich team-mate Arjen Robben in Germany’s Euro 2012 clash against the Netherlands.

Fullback Lahm will lock horns with Dutch winger Robben in the Group B fixture, which has been billed as a must-win for Bert van Marwijk’s side following their surprise 1-0 defeat to Denmark.

“I am looking forward to the duel,” Lahm told Sportbild.

“As a player you always want to play the best and Arjen is one of the best around.

“He has the ability to beat anyone down both flanks with his speed and dribbling even when he’s known to cut inside.

“The Dutch cannot lose against us and in this game we will not be friends. Arjen will be especially motivated against us.”

Netherlands midfielder and former Bayern man Mark van Bommel has fuelled the rivalry between the countries by suggesting Bastian Schweinsteiger would have been a better choice to captain the German club ahead of Lahm.

However, the 28-year-old remained diplomatic over the matter, hinting the Dutchman is simply engaging in mind games.

“That is his opinion which he has a right to voice,” Lahm said.

“Sometimes I find the timing of what people say very interesting, other than that I can only smile.”