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Low dodges politics surrounding Greece game

The game, billed by the media of both countries as the clash of the eurozone, pits the eurozone's problem child against its rich northern paymaster.

"[German Chancellor] Angela Merkel and us, we have a good relationship and an agreement that she does not advise me on the line-ups and I do not advise her on political statements," Low told reporters.

"It is just a normal quarter-final game against Greece and nothing else," Low said.

Low, however, did not hesitate to comment on Greece playmaker Giorgos Karagounis' absence due to suspension. Karagounis scored the only goal against Russia.

"I think he is the one who has been having the big ideas in the Greek game for years. He is the connection between the defence and the players in attack and for Greece his absence is painful."

"Greece will not be an easy opponent. They are uncomfortable," said central defender Holger Badstuber. "They will defend well but will also, no doubt, have their offensive impulses.

"We need to be focused and not take this game lightly just because they are a small team."

Low's squad trained on Tuesday without Mesut Ozil, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Lars Bender, all nursing minor knocks after the 2-1 win over Denmark on Sunday.

"This is purely a precautionary measure. They are all fit," the 52-year-old coach said.

Ozil, a key player in the Germans' run to third place at the 2010 World Cup, has yet to shine in this tournament but Low said it would happen.

"There will still be an Ozil explosion in this tournament. Just like in South Africa after the group stage," he said.