Bierhoff out of Euro 2000

Oliver Bierhoff's Euro 2000 dreams are over

Germany's star striker Oliver Bierhoff, who was already out of the clash with England, has now been ruled out for the whole of Euro 2000.

The calf injury that he picked up in training has turned out to be worse than it first appeared.

The news was confirmed by team spokesman Wolfgang Niersbach.

"The injury is worse than we had first thought and the tournament is over for him," he said.

"Once the swelling subsided, doctors determined that it's a massive fiber tear and that he would not be able to play again."

Erich Ribbeck was obviously hugely disappointed: "It's a big blow for us and especially for him," said the Germany coach.

"He's staying with us and I'm sure he will have a positive influence on the group."

Germany began against Romania with Bierhoff partnered by Paulo Rink, but Ribbeck has named Ulf Kirsten and Carsten Jancker to start against England.