adminthree straight defeats that cost coach Louis van Gaal his job, ahead of today’s clash with Hamburg.
Van Gaal was told on Monday that his contract will be terminated in May, a year early, after his team suffered back-to-back league defeats and were dumped out of the German Cup at home to Schalke.
Last Saturday’s 3-1 defeat at Hanover left defending champions Bayern fifth in the league and a massive 19 points behind league leaders Borussia Dortmund.
With the Bundesliga title out of their reach, Bayern must close the seven-point gap behind second-placed Bayer Leverkusen to be sure of a Champions League place next season.
Lahm says his star-studded team must take responsibility for their situation if they are to avoid a fourth straight defeat at home to Hamburg.
“We’re gutted about the three defeats in a row,” admitted Lahm, whose side host holders Inter Milan in the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie on Tuesday.
“We’ll do everything we possibly can to take the three points. It’s up to us now. Every individual player has to take responsibility.
“Our sole priority now is qualifying for the Champions League. It’s where we want to be and it’s where Bayern belong.”
Van Gaal will name a near full-strength team, the only confirmed absentees being Brazilian centre-back Breno (suspended) and long-term injury victim Ivica Olic.
Hamburg will be without injured Dutch defender Joris Mathijsen as the 30-year-old centre-back has a knee injury.
Germany defender Heiko Westermann will captain the team, who are also coming to terms with the news that they will soon be losing their coach.
Armin Veh will leave at the end of the season after just 10 months in charge, citing internal problems for his departure.
Hamburg are seventh and have won just two of their last six matches.
Runaway leaders Dortmund are set to be without hot-shot striker Lucas Barrios for today’s clash with Hoffenheim. – AFP.
Online Reporter