Summer sun brings out Californian in Klinsmann

BERLIN, June 11 (Reuters) Summer has finally arrived in Berlin and the sunshine seems to have brought the Californian out in Juergen Klinsmann.

The Germany World Cup coach gave his players the day off to enjoy the sweltering heat today, telling his team to relax and clear the heads rather than worry about training.

''They've been playing tennis, football and basketball,'' Klinsmann said at a news conference today. ''They've been scattered about the hotel.'' Germany have just three days to prepare for their next Group A game against Poland but Klinsmann said his players deserved the break after a rousing 4-2 win over Costa Rica in the tournament's opening match on Friday.

''They need a little mental relaxation,'' the coach said.

''They gave the world a great opening match. They made everyone very happy and collected the three points.'' Klinsmann has continued to commute from his home in California since taking over as Germany coach in 2004.

His refusal to move back to Germany brought him fierce criticism from club bosses, other coaches and the media but the performance on Friday should have lifted some of the pressure.

The 41-year-old was certainly in relaxed mood today as he looked ahead to the remaining group games against Poland on June 14 and Ecuador on June 20.

''I think people's respect for us is growing,'' Klinsmann said.

''Of course we made mistakes and we will continue to do so but we have to quality to make up for any errors.'' REUTERS PDS PM1919