Niklas Sule is determined to prove Uli Hoeness wrong as the injured defender aims to recover full fitness in time for Euro 2020.
The Bayern Munich centre-back tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during a Bundesliga game in October.
The serious injury was expected to end Sule s season and former Bayern president Hoeness told him to forget about representing Germany at the Euros.
But the 24-year-old said his rehabilitation is going well and could lead to an early comeback.
The knee s fine, I m ahead in the healing process. That speaks to the good work of the surgeon, Sule told reporters at a Bayern fan event.
For me, the European Championship is clearly the goal and I assume that I can and will do it.
I work for it every day. I hope to return to the team in March or April and then it s absolutely within feasible range. It s a tough journey but I know I can do it.
on Niklas : I hope that he ll be back for . I think that s his goal too. He s dealt with it very well mentally and is staying positive.
— Germany (@DFB_Team_EN)
Asked about the likelihood of achieving his target, Sule added: For my part, 100 percent.
Sule made his international debut in 2016 and has gone on to win 24 caps for Germany.
Joachim Low s men will face holders Portugal and World Cup winners France in a tough Group F at next year s tournament.
