Hansi Flick delighted with late bloomer Niclas Fullkrug's impact

Hansi Flick praised the determination of Niclas Fullkrug after he came off the bench to score an equaliser against Spain and keep Germany's World Cup hopes alive.

A surprise loss to Japan in their opening Group E game means Flick’s side do not have their destiny in their own hands but a 1-1 draw at Al Bayt Stadium – where Germany hit back after Alvaro Morata had opened the scoring – was a good response.

Only Costa Rica’s late win over Japan earlier in the day gives Germany any chance, but they will have to beat the Central Americans and hope the result in the other game goes their way if they are to avoid group-stage elimination for the second time in succession.

Werder Bremen forward Fullkrug, 29, only made his senior international debut in the week before the World Cup, scoring in a friendly win over Oman.

He became Germany’s oldest outfield debutant in 20 years and Flick was delighted with his contribution against Spain.

"We are very happy that he showed us his determination and how to score goals," he said.

"He gives lots to the team, not only goals, but is also a very good boy, he has his heart in the right place and we are very happy to have him."

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Flick refused to rule out starting Fullkrug in the game against Costa Rica as he aims for the victory that will give Germany hope of getting through.

"We knew what it was all about and what was at stake," he added.

"Things start to develop when you start to win, so maybe this will give us a boost to have the self-confidence to