Germany goalkeeper Jens Lehmann says he is downcast after experiencing disappointment for both club and country in the last few months.

The 36-year was sent off for Arsenal in their Champions League final loss to Barcelona, before helping his country reach the World Cup semi-finals, where they were beaten 2-0 after extra-time by Italy.

Lehmann is now preparing for the third-place play-off against Portugal, but he admitted: "Right now I am utterly disappointed.

"I got so close twice. I am still wondering why and I am looking still for an answer. I have yet to find one. It will take a while, if I ever find one.

"As long as I play football there is hope that things will get better.

"With Arsenal we have a good team once more and it will be our goal to reach the (Champions League) final again and win it."

Lehmann is expected to sit out the clash with Portugal, with Bayern Munich's Oliver Kahn set to be handed a first start of the tournament.