Matthaus fit to play

Ribbeck's options are enhanced by Matthaus' return

Lothar Matthaus is set to take his place in the German team for Monday's clash with Romania.

The player, now into his third decade of international football, had been struggling with a thigh injury.

But the veteran trained normally on Saturday and should take his place in the German defence when the European champions start their campaign.

"If everything goes well from now on I should be able to play," the 39-year-old said.

Both teams enter the tournament with their reputations diminishing, largely because of the average age of their squad.

The German side that won Euro 96 has hardly changed and the lack of progression is a source of annoyance to some of the players as well as their avid supporters.

Gheorghe Hagi: Still the Romanian threat

The Romania side was also regarded by many as being over the hill at France 98, and there has been little change in the past two years.

Another similarity is in both team's reliance on a veteran superstar.

Matthaus remains a key player, while Romania are still seemingly dependant on Gheorghe Hagi.

Almost certain to quit international football after this tournament, Romania's greatest player has not lost any flair or imagination as the years have gone by.

I have many different starting elevens in my head.

Romania coach Emerich Jenei

Fresh from his Uefa Cup success with Galatasaray, the 35-year-old is hoping for a fitting swansong at this level.

Amazingly, his country have never won a match at this level, and with Portugal and England standing in their way after the German challenge, that record may stay the same.

Romania coach Emerich Jenei admits that despite having an injury free squad, he has no idea what his team will look like on Monday.

"I have many different starting elevens in my head," he said.

Jens Nowotny: Will be watching Hagi

Germany coach Erich Ribbeck is planning his own strategy to contain the talents of Hagi.

"What we have to do is find a way to limit his influence," Ribbeck said.

Jens Nowotny may be the man to do that, although the man-marker knows his job is not the easiest.

"It's always difficult when you play a team with a fine playmaker who's a potential match-winner. If he's having a great day, you're in trouble."