Podolski expects semi-final start

Lukas Podolski has revealed he does not envisage being left out of the Germany’s starting line-up for next week’s Euro 2012 semi-final.

The Arsenal forward, along with Mario Gomez and Thomas Mueller, was dropped to the bench for the 4-2 win over Greece, with Andre Schuerrle, Marco Reus and Miroslav Klose coming into the team.

Despite admitting he was disappointed by Joachim Loew’s decision, the ex-Cologne man is nonetheless expecting to be reinstated for the side’s next match.

“I am disappointed because I wanted to play, but you have to take it – it’s part of the sport.” Podolski told Goal.com.

“There are more important things to play for, and I cannot worry about having to sit on the bench once. I assume that I will play in the semi-finals again.”

Germany will face the winner of Sunday’s clash between Italy and England in the last four of the tournament.