Lars Bender: I want to make Germany squad for 2014 World Cup

Feb 13, 2013 12:35:00 PM

The holding midfielder is dreaming of next year's tournament in Brazil, and is optimistic about Leverkusen's chances at success

Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender has set his sights on a spot in Germany's squad for the 2014 World Cup.

The 23-year-old made his debut for the Nationalelf in September 2011, and was part of the team that made it to the semi-finals at Euro 2012.

"Once you’ve experienced what it’s like at a big tournament, you want more. The World Cup is as big as it gets for a footballer and I want to experience it first-hand," Bender told Fifa.com.

"Up until the World Cup I need to play well for my club in order to even be considered for the national team. I’ve still got a long way to go, which is why I’m focusing fully on tasks that lie ahead."

Bender then went on to discuss Leverkusen's chances at silverware this term, and stressed that they have the quality to have a successful season.

"We’ve shown for a long time what we’re capable of doing. We have a squad that can fight for titles."

Leverkusen currently sit third in the Bundesliga table, and are among the remaining 32 teams in the Europa League.

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