Heynckes defends star names

Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes has denied claims his star plays Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben are "passionless prima donnas." The pair have come in for criticism for their performances since the winter break as Bayern have lost the lead in the Bundesliga to Borussia Dortmund. German FIFA World Cup™ winner Olaf Thon, who spent six years at Bayern, was quoted as describing them in Kicker magazine as "prima donnas" and "prime examples of lacking passion and playing standing still." Another former Bayern player, Mario Basler, said the club should get rid of Robben. "For me there is absolutely no discussion: Robben has to go," the former striker said on www.sport1.de. Heynckes defended his players, though, telling Bild: "I know Olaf Thon, that is his opinion and not mine. He has to answer for such comments. I don't want to say anything more about it."