B. Schweinsteiger appointed captain of the German national team

The German national team has a new captain.

After Philipp Lahm announced his retirement from the national team, coach Joachim Low appointed Bastian Schweinsteiger as the captain.

The Munich "Bayern" midfielder will be replaced by his teammate both in the club and national team, goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

The 30-year-old midfielder made his debut for "Die Mannschaft" in 2004 and has played more than 100 matches since then.

"Bastian is a true leader and he can always take responsibility both on and off the field. I believe in his ability to be a leader. He unites all the players, no matter their age or which club they play for," Low said.

"Schweinsteiger always gives his all when we need him. He is worthy of the captain's armband and will perform these duties in the national team excellently," Low added.