Klose call for Germany

Klose: Aims to equal record

The Germany camp has been hit by flu as they prepare for their World Cup third-place play-off with Uruguay, while star striker Miroslav Klose is doubtful.

Coach Joachim Low, captain Philipp Lahm and striker Lukas Podolski are all suffering from flu but it is hoped Lahm and Podolski will be well enough to play.

Klose is more of a concern, though, with the four-goal frontman having sat out training with the back problem that hindered him in Wednesday's semi-final defeat by Spain.

Assistant coach Hansi Flick had to take charge of training on Friday and will step in for the afternoon press conference.

However, Low is expected to take his place on the bench for Saturday's match at Port Elizabeth.

"Low is confined to his bed and will not take part in the pre-match press conference at Port Elizabeth this evening," confirmed team spokesman Harald Stenger on Friday.

Not serious

Lahm and Podolski sat out Friday's session but Stenger confirmed that "their state of health is less serious than that of the coach".

Klose is eager to prove his fitness in time as he is one goal short of Ronaldo's all-time World Cup scoring record of 15 goals following his brace in the quarter-final win over Argentina.