Lehmann says Germany must forget World Cup pressure

Germany's goalkeeper Jens Lehmann addresses a press conference. Lehmann has urged his team-mates to try and enjoy next month's World Cup finals and forget the pressure the hosts are under to win the competition.

German international goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has urged his team-mates to try and enjoy next month's World Cup finals and forget the pressure the hosts are under to win the competition.

Germany kick off the World Cup on June 9 against Costa Rica in Munich and the pressure is on the three-time winners to deliver in front of their demanding public.

"We all need to enjoy this World Cup and not think about the huge pressure," Lehmann said at Germany's Swiss training camp in Geneva.

"I noticed from playing in the Champions League that it is fun to play in the big games. Quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals have a unique atmosphere to them.

"I am convinced we can go on a good run with this team and land the ultimate prize."

The 36-year-old Lehmann starts as Germany's number one after winning his battle with Oliver Kahn and insists his traumatic experience with Arsenal in last week's Champions League final will not affect him.

Lehmann was sent off in Paris after just 18 minutes as Arsenal lost 2-1 to Barcelona in the Champions League final.

"I am glad to be training regularly and to be able to concentrate fully on the World Cup," Lehmann said. "It is now all about getting in peak condition.

"I do not need theraphy after the Champions League final."