Berlin - Much speculation surrounds the return of Michael Ballack to the German side when he recovers from injury, but no matter what the decision regarding this, Philipp Lahm wants to stay on as Germany captain.

The 26-year-old Lahm is Germany's youngest ever World Cup captain after an ankle injury forced long-term leader Ballack to miss the tournament.

Bayern Munich defender Lahm told Tuesday's edition of the daily Bild there was no reason to give up the role voluntarily.

Lahm says he "would like to keep the captain's armband, I really enjoy the role."

Asked whether the national team still needs Ballack, Bild reports that Lahm replied: "It's not for me to say yes or no to that question."

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