International stars return fit and healthy

Jupp Heynckes spent Wednesday evening as just another viewer in front of the TV. Fourteen of his players were away from Munich, competing in eight friendly internationals. However, the only clash the FCB boss could watch live and at full length was France versus Germany. He then took in a couple of highlight reports from other matches, he told reporters the following day. And Heynckes was pleased, for although he was unable to follow the fortunes of all his players on TV, it was a good round of friendlies from a Bayern point of view. In the first place, all 14 travellers returned to the Säbener Strasse fit and healthy, and as an added bonus, most were buoyed by wins or a taste of personal success.

Chief among them was Dante, fresh from winning a first cap for Brazil against England, a game in which he covered the full 90 minutes. “I'm so proud of having played in the famous yellow jersey," the Brazilian told FCB.tv. Heynckes was delighted for the 29-year-old: “It's an incredible experience for him. We all know how Brazilians are infatuated with their national team."

Scolari expresses approval

“He fully deserved to make his debut," the FCB supremo continued, “he’s so consistent in our defence. He has huge belief in himself, he’s very solid, and he has real standing in the dressing room." The centre-back clearly made a mark on Brazil coach Felipe Scolari, who said: “I'm very satisfied, and I believe Brazil have one more defender for the future."