German National Team Manager Oliver Bierhoff

The centre-forward was top scorer with 27 goals in Italy's Serie A with Udinese in 1997-98.
He won the Italian Championship with AC Milan in 1999 and was voted Germany's Footballer of the Year the following year.

Oliver Bierhoff earned worldwide renown with 37 goals in 70 international appearances, most notably with his two-goal performance in the 2:1 victory for Germany against the Czech Republic in the final of the 1996 European Championships in London.

How would you describe your character?

I'm ambitious, honest, disciplined, modest and quite open to new ideas.

What is your favorite music?

"Even better than the real thing " by U2.

What is your favourite book?

"Atlas Shrugged " by Ayn Rand.

And your favourite food?

Pasta with tomato sauce.

What makes you happiest and why?

The most important thing is to be healthy and enjoy life. The rest is also important and contributes to your personal happiness. If you're referring to football it's success and winning matches. Just like in life, being successful at your job and having a happy private life.

What is your secret passion?

I always dress smartly but when I'm on vacation in the US for example I like to wear casual clothes..that's my secret passion.

Who is your hero and why?

I have a number of personal heroes. I especially admire people who can deal with personal tragedies in a positive way and still lead a fulfilled and happy life although they've suffered harsh blows.

What qualities do you admire most in a friend?

I still have two very close childhood friends. I'm just Oliver to them. We never discuss football.

Who will you always be grateful to?

My parents..they've supported me over the years and gave me an upbringing. They taught me how to tackle certain matters and also how learn things. And my wife, who has supported me for many years and my friends.

Who would you owe an apology to?

There are always small things that have happened, even if it's just a forgotten birthday or you didn't pay enough attention to someone. I always approach things positively so I hope someone who feels offended knows I didn't mean it.

What is your unfulfilled ambition?

I don't think any one thing would make me the happiest person in the world. Besides, I think everything comes in good time.

What do you treasure most?

When you are 18 you sometimes rush into things. You think you can conquer the whole world. You often don't stop to think. I think you must always be honest to yourself and others..and that's what I try to do.