Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld is refusing to accept his side have been crowned champions of Germany until it is mathematically confirmed.Bayern's 4-1 home win over Stuttgart on Sunday opened up a 12-point advantage at the top of the Bundesliga with four games remaining. Allied to their far superior goal difference over their rivals, the Bavarians are all but home and hosed.

Although it would take a seemingly impossible chain of events to deny Bayern their 21st Bundesliga crown, Hitzfeld is keeping his feet on the ground.

"I am convinced that nothing will happen [to prevent Bayern becoming champions], but we are patient and we will delay our celebrations until the right moment," said the 59-year-old, who is on the verge of his seventh Bundesliga title.

Hitzfeld praised Stuttgart, who "made it difficult" for his side, and claimed the 4-1 win was "too flattering" on the champions-elect.

"They were tough opponents and were the better team for a long period," added Hitzfeld.

"We scored at the right time early in the second half with [Mark] van Bommel's goal for 2-1 very important and then [Franck] Ribery's fantastic goal.

"Stuttgart had chances and [Bayern goalkeeper Michael] Rensing had to make a few good saves."

However, Rensing was at fault for the Stuttgart goal and Oliver Kahn may be back for Thursday's UEFA Cup semi-final second leg at Zenit St Petersburg.

"He wanted to play today and see how it went, but I talked him out of it," said Hitzfeld of Kahn, who has been struggling with a trapped nerve in his thigh.

"It was too much of a risk and we need to concentrate on Thursday, although it is not yet certain he will play then either."

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