Football
Associated Press 10y

Boateng, Khedira OK to train

PORTO SEGURO, Brazil -- Germany defender Jerome Boateng and midfielder Sami Khedira have been cleared to return to training after picking up injuries in the 2-2 draw with Ghana.

Boateng did not return for the second half of Saturday's match after injuring his left thigh. Khedira strained a left knee ligament. The Real Madrid midfielder missed six months of the season after surgery on the same knee.

Assistant coach Hansi Flick says both players have been cleared by medical staff.

Germany play the United States in their last Group G match on Thursday in Recife. A draw would see both teams advance to the knockout stage, but Flick says "we want to win the group and we'll play to win."

In the event of a draw, Germany would win the group on goal difference, thanks to their 4-0 victory over Portugal.

Flicks said captain Philipp Lahm will continue to play in midfield and not return to his natural position as right back, a move that would bolster the defence. Lahm was unconvincing against Ghana, giving away the ball before Ghana scored the second goal.

^ Back to Top ^