Germany coach Joachim Low has defended his captain Philipp Lahm ahead of their World Cup semi-final encounter against Spain in Durban on Wednesday.

The Bayern Munich defender has been the centre of an unnecessary controversy brewing in the German camp after comments that he wanted to remain as skipper even when the injured Michael Ballack returns after the tournament.

Lahm was speaking to the Bild newspaper less than 48 hours before the crucial encounter, but Low said: "That does not bother us at all. He spoke honestly about what he thinks. He has been enjoying the added responsibility and he has done his job here in an exemplary fashion."