Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness insists that captain Philipp Lahm is still a critical part of the first team amid rumours that he could retire next year.
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Speculation has emerged in Germany that the World Cup-winning defender is in line to become the club's new sporting director if he calls time on his illustrious playing career at the end of the season.
Hoeness, however, wants Lahm to see out his contract - which runs until 2018 - with the Bundesliga champions before any decision is made on a non-playing role for the 33-year-old at the Allianz Arena.