Klinsmann surprise adds speed to Germany squad

BERLIN, May 15 (Reuters) Borussia Dortmund midfielder David Odonkor spoke with Germany coach Juergen Klinsmann for the first time today and was told he would be going to the World Cup.

The uncapped 22-year-old was a surprise choice in Klinsmann's squad, having never been discussed publicly as a candidate.

''We had our very first contact today,'' said Klinsmann, adding Odonkor was elated to get the call.

''But naturally we got plenty of information about him from Under-21 coach Dieter Eilts. We've had our eye on him for the last six months but didn't want to include him too soon to keep the pressure off him.'' Odonkor, who can run 100 metres in 10.9 seconds, was added as replacement for Bayern Munich's injured midfielder Sebastian Deisler.

''He's a great talent and brings something we urgently need -- speed, the unexpected and someone who can sprint to the goal line and give us a cross from deep in the corner,'' said Klinsmann.

''We believe that he can help us with his cheekiness, something we're missing,'' he added of Odonkor, who played 15 matches for the under-21 team and scored three goals.

Odonkor, whose father is from Ghana and mother from Germany, was born in the northern town of Buende. He has been with Dortmund since 1998 and was a member of the side that won the Bundesliga in 2002.

''I'm going to go to bed tonight and when I wake up tomorrow morning, I'll wake up and hope this all isn't just a dream,'' Odonkor said.

REUTERS DH BD2114