Oliver Bierhoff eyes Germany-England friendly friendly after Remembrance Sunday

Alan Shearer (left) and Sol Campbell share a laugh with Oliver Bierhoff (right) during the FA Anniversary Celebrations Launch at the Grand Connaught Rooms, London. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday January 16, 2013. See PA story SOCCER FA. Photo credit should read: Anthony Devlin/PA Wire. RESTRICTIONS: Use subject to FA restrictions. Editorial use only. Commercial use only with prior written consent of the FA. No editing except cropping. Call +44 (0)1158 447447 or see www.paphotos.com/info/ for full restrictions and further information.

Thursday, January 17, 2013
7:50 AM

Oliver Bierhoff believes Anglo-German relations could receive a major boost from a proposed friendly between the two countries straight after Remembrance Sunday.

With discussions also under way with the Argentinian FA over another friendly within the double-header that is reserved for World Cup play-offs, the two most sensitive opponents England can face could be met on November 15 and 19, days after the nationwide services to remember those who have lost their lives fighting for their country on November 10.

The games could only happen if England and Germany manage to finish top of their World Cup qualifying pools, thereby gaining direct entry to Brazil 2014.

However, speaking at the launch of the FA’s 150th anniversary celebrations in central London this afternoon, Bierhoff insists a meeting with Germany at such an obvious time of heightened emotions is not something to be backed away from.

Whilst evocative memories of two World Wars which cost millions their lives can hardly be avoided, the man who scored Germany’s Euro 96 winner at Wembley 17 years ago and is now their general manager feels it could instead emphasise the closer ties that now exist between the two nations.

“Firstly we are honoured to be asked and would be happy to play because it would mean we had directly qualified for the World Cup,” said Bierhoff.

“Playing against England at Wembley is a great experience and a big motivation for the players.

“Some people might say it could be dangerous playing in certain moments.

“On the other side it can show how and what sport means to have a friendly game, to show that we can work together, have fair play and be sporting, that you can have different goals or be in competition but also be fair and friendly together.

“It could be a good sign for football.”