Neur hails team spirit

Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer hailed his side's remarkable team spirit after their 1-0 World Cup final win over Argentina on Sunday.

Neuer, who was named goalkeeper of the tournament following the extra-time victory, paid tribute to the squad and coaching staff, as well as the players who were unable to travel to Brazil due to injury.

"It's unbelievable," he told German television. "All of Germany is world champions now.

"All those who didn't play brought such togetherness into the team, that's why we won the World Cup."

Neuer's role in Germany's triumph extended far beyond his superb shot-stopping abilities as his perfectly timed dashes out of the area to cut off opposition breaks instilled confidence in his back four and helped launch fast counter-attacks.

"It's not about me and whether or not I risk my neck for the team," he added. "The team did a super job, everything was great, the team behind the team.