‘Germans have Jabulani benefit’

England's Jamie Carragher believes Germany gained a huge advantage by ensuring their players had four months to get used to the ball they banged into the net four times against Australia.

England's Jamie Carragher believes Germany gained a huge advantage by ensuring their players had four months to get used to the ball they banged into the net four times against Australia.

HT Image

The controversial Jabulani balls were introduced by Bundesliga clubs sponsored by Adidas in February. Carragher believes that has given England's biggest rivals an edge that was apparent in their 4-0 win over the Socceroos.

“That is exactly what we were saying as we were watching,” Carragher said. “It gives them an advantage anyway. Certainly, that is true. It is obvious.” FIFA and Adidas insist that altitude is the reason.