Toni to fight for Bayern place

Out-of-favour striker wants to fight for his place at Bayern

Last updated: 15th September 2009

 
Toni to fight for Bayern place

Toni: Wants to fight for his place

Out-of-favour Italian striker Luca Toni insists he wants to stay at Bayern Munich and fight for his place - for now.

The big targetman has yet to appear under the new Bayern coach Louis van Gaal after an injury picked up during the summer saw him slip down the pecking order.

The Italy international is looking for playing time as he is desperate to represent his country at next summer's World Cup and he hopes to force his way back into Van Gaal's plans.

He said: "I know that I am not his ideal striker, but it is possible that the coach changes his mind.

Convinced

"I am convinced I have the quality."

In a bid to get some more match practice, Toni has already offered his services to the coach of Bayern's reserve team, Mehmet Scholl.

The 32-year-old says he would have no problem playing in the third division with the reserves, just as long as it is not a permanent solution, particularly with the World Cup on the horizon.

"I really want to play," he said. "I am ready for the challenge.

 

Humbling

"If I had to play the full year under Mehmet Scholl, then that would be humbling."

But Toni would still rather play a few matches in the lower leagues than run away from the club straight away and admit defeat.

"I want to give everything for Bayern. I want to keep scoring goals here and I think I am capable of that," he said.