Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is ready to take from lead from his predecessors during his team’s Euro 2016 campaign saying “I have to take responsibility”.
Manchester Utd midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger now captains the side after Philipp Lahm retired after winning the World Cup, however the midfielder has been struggling with a knee ligament since January.
During his absence Neuer has captained in friendlies and other qualifiers, and manager Joachim Löw has a choice whether he or Juventus midfielder Sami Khedira will captain the side. Neuer is ready to step up to the challenge.
“As a goalkeeper, I have to take responsibility anyway and I see my role as guiding the younger players,” said Neuer, who has been voted world’s best goalkeeper for the last three years.
“As a goalkeeper, you are expected to talk a lot, both on and off the pitch,” said the commanding keeper.
Germany play Ukraine in their opening match followed Poland and the Republic of Ireland, and critics have pointed to Germany’s defeats to Poland and the Republic of Ireland already but Neuer can’t wait to get going.
“We are pleased that it’s finally going to get started. We can barely wait to get on the pitch,” said Neuer.
The scene is set and the imposing keeper is ready to step up.
