New Delhi, Jan 8 (IANS): Two-time Olympic champion and Germany captain Oliver Korn said here Wednesday that for them the Jan 10-18 Hockey World League Final will be a preparation for the upcoming World Cup.

The World Cup will be held in The Hague, Netherlands, from May 31 to June 15. Germany, who finished runners-up in the last edition of the World Cup here in 2010 now are aiming for the coveted trophy that they had won in 2006 and 2002.

"We don’t play or start any tournament thinking where we want to finish. But we are here to work on our basics and improve as a team. This is the start of the year and we are looking to prepare for the World Cup. So with this tournament, we start the process for the World Cup preparations," Korn said after unveiling the World League Final trophy.

The 29-year-old Korn has replaced regular skipper Maximilian Müller, who is injured.

"We have rested some seniors and will be trying out some new combinations. Our captain Maximilian Müller is injured. Still, I believe this is a very good side. We will try and give chances to some new players. As the World Cup is our main aim, it is important that all players get the chance to prove themselves. This is a very good opportunity to take on the best teams in the world," said Korn.