Do they look like something from history? Maybe Klinsmann and Voller? The 1990 Germany heroes?

Germany finally seem to have a strike partnership worthy of the name. The 28-year-old Klose had his shooting boots on right from the start, scoring four goals to help Germany finish top of Group A, while Podolski, seven years his junior, struck twice in the first match of the knockout stages to book the team’s quarter-final berth – with both goals set up by Klose. “The partnership keeps getting better. They took their game to the next level in the way they managed to combine. Let’s hope they can keep improving,” commented Klinsmann.

Neither of the two front-men will be resting on their laurels, though. “Obviously after the last game, everyone’s now talking of how good our partnership is. But that’s a pretty pointless comment to make after one match. This time last week, people were saying that we couldn’t play together. Sure, we played well on Saturday, but there’s still room for improvement,” explained Podolski, in reference to the hefty criticism that came his way after the opening two games.

“I wasn’t about to change the way I was playing. I knew that it was just a matter of time before I scored my first goal. I’m not interested in what the critics have to say.” He may only be 21, but this, at last, is the Podolski of old. He is scoring goals, enjoying his football and is past caring about anything else.

“I don’t need people to keep my feet on the ground, I can do that myself,” he said just after notching the two most important goals of his career to date. And if he does need any advice, he can always turn to Mirek. “We have such a great understanding, on and off the pitch,” he said. Klose, revelling in his role as senior partner, added: “It’s important for me to set an example.”

Although his striking capabilities have not been in doubt since he scored five goals at Korea/Japan 2002, few people thought that he could be ruthless enough to take the next step and become a genuine world-class centre forward.

“Miro’s transfer to Werder Bremen was very important for him, as was the birth of his two children,” explained Germany team manager Oliver Bierhoff. “He has become more mature and self-confident, particularly in the way he comes across. He also has a very professional mindset and has managed to overcome any injuries he’s had and come back even stronger. He knows that this World Cup is a real platform for him.”

Source: WCoffsite