Hitzfeld warning to Elber

The 30-year-old turned down the clubs' proposal to renew his contract and explained that he will leave the Olympiastadion at the end of his current deal in June 2004, a decision which has infuriated the Bayern boss.

The former Grasshoppers and Stuttgart star had been promoted to the vice skipper job last August, but according to Hitzfeld, he has failed to show the responsibility which comes along with the job.

"I believe that he fullfills his contract until 2004, but from our position it will only make sense if his performances are appropriate," said the German supremo.

Hitzfeld hinted that Bayern might sell their ageing star who is currently only third choice behind Roque Santa Cruz and Claudio Pizarro up front.

"After the winter break I want to see a Giovane Elber who is hungry for success. He will face a period of probation," explained Hitzfeld.

Elber enjoyed a superb start into the season netting ten goals in the first weeks, but he has lost his way and his poor form was instrumental in Bayern's shock Champions League exit.