2. Bundesliga

Rafael van der Vaart Rafael van der Vaart has labelled the home leg of Hamburg's relegation play-off against Greuther Furth as crucial to their survival hopes.

Nürnberg Nuremberg have confirmed the signing of 1860 Munich midfielder Mike Ott on a three-year contract.

Franz Beckenbauer Franz Beckenbauer claims he can not imagine seeing struggling Hamburg ply their trade in the 2. Bundesliga.

Joachim Löw After Germany's dreadful World Cup performance, Lothar Matthaus wants coach Joachim Low to be willing to drop some of his biggest names.

Daniel Ginczek Stuttgart have completed the signing of 23-year-old striker Daniel Ginczek from Nuremberg on a four-year deal.

Ivica Olic 1860 Munich have described Ivica Olic's conduct as "stupid" after he picked up a two-game ban and a fine for betting offences.

Marc Wachs is recovering in hospital after being hurt in a gun attack at a relative's shop, Dynamo Dresden have confirmed.

Julian Green has called time on his Bayern Munich career and agreed a three-year contract with 2.Bundesliga promotion-chasers Stuttgart.

In Other News... Nürnberg supporters are coming together with stadium name rights-holders Consorsbank to crowdfund the re-naming of their stadium in honour of club legend Max Morlock.