THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
TENERO, Switzerland — While Lukas Podolski’s strong performances for Germany at the European Championship may help him relaunch his club career, it may not happen with Bayern Munich.
After scoring three goals in the group stage and being one of Germany’s top players, Podolski has a shot at topping the scorers’ list, especially if Germany beats Turkey in Wednesday’s semifinal in Basel.
"Before the tournament, I did not expect to have three goals already by now, but I feel very good, in top shape," Podolski said Monday at Germany’s training base in southern Switzerland.
Spain’s David Villa leads the tournament with four goals.
"I hope we will meet in the final," said Podolski, who knows Villa from the shooting of an advertising film for a common sponsor.
Podolski’s strong play at the tournament have thrust him back at the centre of attention in Germany. Moreover, he has been playing in left midfield or on the left wing, not in his usual position as striker.
He became one of Germany’s most popular players before and during the 2006 World Cup at home, when he earned the title of the best young player as Germany finished third.
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