Joachim Loew names Schweinsteiger as new Germany Captain
Bastian Schweinsteiger was named captain of the Germany national team by coach Joachim Loew on Tuesday.
The Bayern Munich midfielder is to succeed team mate, Philipp Lahm, after he retired from international football following their World Cup victory in Brazil in July.
30-year-old Schweinsteiger has won 108 caps and scored 23 goals for Germany. He however will not lead the team in Wednesday’s friendly rematch of the final against Argentina due to injury. He will also miss Sunday’s Euro 2016 World Cup qualifier against Scotland
Explaining his decision, coach Loew said: “Bastian is the absolute leader and he has always shouldered responsibility for the national team on and off the pitch.
“I know Bastian is always there when we need him. He will be a great and worthy captain of our team. He is a legitimate successor to Philipp.”
Loew also announced changes to his squad called up to face Argentina, announcing that midfielder Sebastian Rudy might be replacing Jerome Boateng and Sami Khedira, who are doubtful for the game. He also ruled out Mesut Ozil and Mats Hummels.
Loew also named former VfB Stuttgart coach Thomas Schneider as his new assistant, to succeed Hansi Flick, who becomes the federation’s sports director.
