Franz Beckenbauer backs Bastian Schweinsteiger for captaincy

Legendary Germany defender Franz Beckenbauer has tipped Bastian Schweinsteiger to become the next captain of the national side.

Former skipper Philipp Lahm stepped down from his role following his retirement from international football after their World Cup win, and former centre-back Beckenbauer thinks that his Bayern Munich teammate is the man to take the armband.

He told Bild: "Schweinsteiger for me is the logical successor to Philipp Lahm. He's a leader, he won a lot of sympathy for his incredible versatility in the World Cup final.

"The whole team is raised by such a fighter. And, as deputy to Lahm, he knows the captain's role already.

"Mats Hummels should be vice-captain to Schweinsteiger. Manuel Neuer is a great personality, but a coach prefers an outfield player as they can better influence the action."

Germany beat Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final last month, thanks to Mario Gotze's extra-time winner.