DUBLIN - Jens Lehmann believes Germany will have to step up a gear if they are to make an impact at next summer's Euro 2008 finals.
Coach Joachim Low's side became the first nation to claim a place in the tournament following last night's goalless draw with the Republic of Ireland at Dublin's Croke Park.
Although unbeaten Germany dropped points for only the second time in nine Group D qualifying matches, they are through to the finals with three games to spare.
Despite seven wins, two draws, scoring 31 goals and conceding just four along the way, Arsenal goalkeeper Lehmann feels there is room for improvement.
"I'm very happy to have qualified so early, particularly after a tough game against the Irish," said Lehmann, favoured by Low for country if not by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger for club.
"We went into the game expecting to win, but the Irish were good, organised, pacy in the first half, although they did drop off in the second.
"But the fact we claimed a good draw with several inexperienced players in the side is good for the team and the future.
"However, we are always expected to qualify, and right now we know we have to improve."
Lehmann will miss Wednesday's match against the Czech Republic in Munich through suspension after collecting his second booking of the tournament.
Valencia's Timo Hildebrand will step in for a game that if Germany win they are guaranteed top spot in the group.
"We are very happy and proud about how the team have performed in this qualification," said team manager Oliver Bierhoff.
"It was a very difficult match. Ireland played well. We knew if we gave them time and space they would do so, better than Wales, and occasionally England.
"Sometimes we gave them too much space, and we allowed their good players to play."
Bierhoff feels that bodes well for Ireland manager Steve Staunton, whose intention now is to clinch third place in the group to ensure a decent draw for the 2010 World Cup qualifying programme.
It is almost certain Staunton will lead the team into that campaign, and Bierhoff insists he deserves the chance to do so.
"You have to give him time and another chance," said Bierhoff.
"I don't know all the players, but sometimes it's not easy, and he did start with some difficulties.
"In the last few games he has faired very well. There appears to be a good atmosphere in the team and they work together. It's a good group."
Like Staunton, Bierhoff has stepped into management after being a high-profile player, although he maintains his situation has been considerably easier.
"Sometimes it can be difficult," said Bierhoff.
"For myself it wasn't so, but there can be a lot of pressure and you have to learn very fast.
"At least as national manager in Germany you have the possibility to work with the best people, so I am very fortunate."
