Lahm to lead Germany

Lahm, the 26-year-old right back who also played in the 2006 World Cup, has won 64 international caps and scored three goals, making him among the most experienced players in the squad.

"Lahm has played in his position with great class and will take over the role of captain," Loew told reporters at their Italian training camp.Loew also appointed 24-year-old Neuer as the team's first-choice ’keeper, with Werder Bremen's Tim Wiese as second choice and Bayern Munich's Hans-Joerg Butt third. Neuer will replace Rene Adler as Germany's starting ’keeper after he pulled out with a rib injury

"With our young team, we want to have the responsibilities shared by several players. Bastian Schweinsteiger, on the pitch, will play the role of Ballack and interpret it in his way while Philipp Lahm will become captain. Schweinsteiger will be the vice-captain," Loew said.