Matthäus labels Kimmich “a definite starter” for Germany amid debate over Bayern star's role

Lothar Matthäus wants no part in the debate over Joshua Kimmich's role in the German national team.

Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images

There have been questions over Joshua Kimmich's role in the German national team, with some critics arguing that the captain's place in midfield should no longer be considered guaranteed.

For Lothar Matthäus, however, there is no need to get involved in that debate, with the Germany legend insisting that Kimmich should remain an undisputed starter.

“Joshua Kimmich is a definite starter for me,” Matthäus said in his role as an RTL pundit after Germany's 0-0 draw with Greece.

“I’m not getting involved in this discussion about whether we need him or not. He is a leader, he has experience, and he helps make teams stronger.”

Kimmich was included in the first of two squads named by Jürgen Klopp for the international break, meaning he left the Germany camp after the first two games and before the remaining two.