Lizarazu ready to return

FC Bayern München left-back Bixente Lizarazu will be fit to play in next week’s UEFA Champions League third qualifying round second-leg tie against FK Partizan.

Right thigh injury
The French international, who should return to face Hamburger SV this weekend, has been out of action for over a month after rupturing muscle fibres in his right thigh in a pre-season friendly with Karlsruher SC.

Potent partnership
The 1998 FIFA World Cup winner is looking forward to forming a potent partnership with Brazilian Zé Roberto, who plays on the left side of midfield. "My recovery has taken place quicker than I expected," he said. "I am very motivated, still hungry for titles and can't wait to play alongside Zé Roberto. He has the same football philosophy as I do and I guess he’ll be the perfect partner on the left wing."

Champions League target
The 31-year-old claims that Bayern are desperate to win the UEFA competition after disappointing last season. "The only title we won last year was the Intercontinental Cup [European/South American Cup] and that is not enough for a club as ambitious as Bayern," he said. "In this campaign the [1.] Bundesliga title and the Champions League are our top priorities."