Klinsmann says he is still a coaching apprentice

BERLIN, June 16 (Reuters) Germany coach Juergen Klinsmann was reluctant to take the credit despite winning widespread praise with a new commitment to a fast-paced, adventurous style.

Klinsmann, 41, had never had a coaching job before he took over the German team in 2004. He receives valuable support from assistant Joachim Loew, goalkeeping coach Andreas Koepke and team manager Oliver Bierhoff.

''We're a four-man coaching team and we share the role of leader,'' Klinsmann said at a news conference today.

''I'm still an apprentice. I have to learn quickly and that will continue after the World Cup is over.'' The three-times World Cup winners built their past success on a disciplined approach, playing conservatively and ruthlessly taking their chances.

Klinsmann pledged a change in philosophy after taking over from Rudi Voeller in the wake of a first-round Euro 2004 exit and Germany played an exhilarating attacking game to beat Costa Rica 4-2 in the World Cup opener.

They were no less adventurous against Poland in their second game, although they had to wait until the first minute of added time to clinch a 1-0 win that secured their place in the last 16.

Germany need to beat Ecuador in Berlin on Tuesday to seal first place in Group A and Klinsmann has ruled out resting players.

''We want to maintain our rhythm,'' Klinsmann said. ''We want to finish this phase as group winners.'' Germany will take on the second-placed team in Group B, Sweden, England or Trinidad&Tobago, if they win the section.

REUTERS PDS PM2018