Bayern boss Oliver Kahn is optimistic that goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and attacker Thomas Müller will have overcome their current injury problems in time for the World Cup.

"I don't think it's going to be long," said the former Germany goalkeeper after FC Bayern Munich's 6-2 win against Mainz 05 in the Bundesliga.

"I'm optimistic about Manuel. He'll just keep working his way up bit by bit," said Kahn to the 36-year-old Neuer, who wants to contest his fourth world championship in Qatar as the German number 1. Kahn also spoke to national coach Hansi Flick, who was watching the game as a spectator, in the Allianz Arena on Saturday.

"Shoulder is very painful," said Kahn, given his long professional experience. "You have to deal with that very intelligently. You have to be a bit careful not to put stress on it too early." However, Neuer "knew exactly how to deal with his body". Neuer's representative Sven Ulreich expects Bayern's number 1 to play again before the World Cup. "He's on the mend," said the 34-year-old. Bayern still have four competitive games before the long World Cup break.

Kahn also reported contact with the 33-year-old Müller, who also had to watch the Mainz game from the stands. "He also looks optimistic," said Kahn. After the game, sports director Hasan Salihamidzic spoke of "a small muscular problem" in the national player.