Lukas Podolski has insisted that Germany do not have a plan to combat the threat of Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Monday's World Cup opener.

The Ballon d'Or winner is poised to start against Joachim Low's side at the Arena Fonte Nova having appeared to have shaken off an injury worry that threatened his participation.

Although admitting that the 29-year-old is an "exceptional player", the Germany winger insists that his side will not single out the Real Madrid ace for special treatment.

"We're preparing for Portugal and not for a player," he told reporters.

"Cristiano Ronaldo is, of course, an exceptional player and a danger to us but we also have players of great quality. If we can find our stride then we will win the game."

Monday's encounter is scheduled to kick off at 5pm.

Written by
Shane Callaghan