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Lukas Podolski is benefitting from Arsenal experience says Germany coach Joachim Low

 

Simon Rice
Friday 12 October 2012 11:14 BST
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Lukas Podolski wheels away after scoring against Southampton
Lukas Podolski wheels away after scoring against Southampton (Getty Images)

Lukas Podolski is improving as a player thanks to his summer switch to Arsenal claims Germany coach Joachim Low.

The striker joined the Gunners in an £11m deal from Cologne over the summer, and has quickly settled at the Emirates. In his nine appearances for the north Londoner's Podolski has found the net four times and suffered just one defeat when he's been involved.

Speaking ahead of his side's World Cup qualifier against Republic of Ireland, Germany coach Low said he was impressed with the 27-year-old's progress since moving to the Emirates.

"I always said it would be a good move for him," said Low. "I think the progress he is making at Arsenal is very positive.

"He always has such a positive energy about him and is benefiting from his experiences with Arsenal."

The Polish born striker has over 100 caps for Germany, but with the emergence of Andre Schurrle, Mario Gotze and Marco Reus, some have questioned how much longer Podolski's international career will last, but Low refutes any suggestions his time is coming to an end.

"I can only say positive things about him, even when he does not play," said Low.

"I have always been able to count on him for many years. That makes him indispensable for us.

"Even if he did not always start games, I always rated him very highly."

The player himself is simply eager to be involved in Germany's World Cup qualification process.

"Whether I play left, right, up front, or even left full-back as far as I am concerned - the coach can decide," said Podolski.

"Even playing the role of super sub would not dampen my spirits. I accept the challenge of our competition for places.

"We all want to qualify for the World Cup and, if I don't play, then it is not the end of the world."

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