Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer says he is looking forward to Australia's clash with Germany in next year's World Cup. The former Middlesbrough shot-stopper is of German origin and says the chance to play against the Germans will be a great moment for him.

"I'm excited about playing against Germany, it will be very special for me,'' Schwarzer said.

"The banter has started already (with German family and friends).

"They've got a fantastic side and they always do well at World Cups and to get them first up is fantastic.''

Schwarzer admitted that Australia's draw of Germany, Ghana and Serbia was indeed a tough one but was treating it in a positive fashion.

"Every team has got three or four players who have got international world-class qualities,'' he added.

"It's definitely not the easiest group but it could have been a lot worse."

For more World Cup news involving this mornings draw, go to http://www.worldcup.tribalfootball.com/page/Matches/0,,12952,00.html