Bayern Munich right-back has done a sterling job of leading the team to victory against Argentina and England, although he's courted controversy with his statement ahead of the match against Spain

During the FA Cup final last May, Kevin Prince-Boateng fouled Michael Ballack to the extent where the latter was quickly ruled out of the World Cup. The German media bemoaned their luck and questioned how well the national team would do without a player who has been key to the side's fortunes for several years.

As it's turned out, Die Mannschaft haven't been missing Ballack too much and it's questionable as to whether they would have produced so many fantastic performances if the former Chelsea midfielder had been on the field of play. They certainly seem inspired under manager Joachim Low and new captain Philipp Lahm.

It's clear that Lahm wants to continue as captain after the tournament and the manager has stepped in to comment that there's nothing wrong with the defender stating his ambition during the World Cup. He'll have an even stronger claim to the armband if he can lead his team out in a World Cup final!

Germany are 2/1 (Stan James) to beat Spain tonight.