Bayern Munich president Franz Beckenbauer labelled his club's star striker Luca Toni "selfish" after he failed to score in his side's 3-1 win over Borussia Dortmund on Sunday.
The Italy international missed several chances and was hauled off by coach Jurgen Klinsmann, who sprung to his defence, claiming a striker "always looks for goal when you have a 50/50 chance".
He added: "It is only normal for a striker to be a touch selfish."
But Beckenbauer was still unhappy with the number nine.
"Toni only sees himself, the ball and the goal" he said on Premiere television.
"That is selfishness which is typical of an Italian striker."
Toni left the field in the 72nd minute to be replaced by Landon Donovan and looked far from happy to be removed early.
However, Klinsmann said that was the reaction he expected and wanted from the Italy international.
"I am completely fine about Toni's annoyance," he said.
"It is fine for him to be angry. He is sure of his place in the team and we don't want any discussions about Luca."
He added: "It is only normal for a striker to be a touch selfish."
But Beckenbauer was still unhappy with the number nine.
"Toni only sees himself, the ball and the goal" he said on Premiere television.
"That is selfishness which is typical of an Italian striker."
Toni left the field in the 72nd minute to be replaced by Landon Donovan and looked far from happy to be removed early.
However, Klinsmann said that was the reaction he expected and wanted from the Italy international.
"I am completely fine about Toni's annoyance," he said.
"It is fine for him to be angry. He is sure of his place in the team and we don't want any discussions about Luca."
Copyright (c) Press Association
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