Lothar Matthaus believes Lukas Podolski can be a Germany great.
Germany legend Lothar Matthaus believes Lukas Podolski has the potential to become one of his country's great strikers.The youngster came in for some stiff criticism at the start of the World Cup, after squandering some presentable chances, but the Bayern Munich new boy showed the strength of mind to fight back and prove a star turn for his nation.
Three goals in six matches prompted Fifa's 14-man committee to name him the Best Young Player at this summer's World Cup.
Matthaus, who played in five World Cups and landed the greatest prize as captain in 1990, feels Podolski can be a pivotal figure for Germany in the years ahead.
"Podolski scored three goals for Germany and I think he can do everything," Matthaus told Sky Sports News.
"He is still young, he scored two goals against Sweden and a penalty against Argentina which shows he believes in himself.
"He is a really tough player, he feels the ball in the area and knows the right way.
"He is a real player, a street player and you can see this.
"I like him very much."
