Beckenbauer ...& the glory

He won World Cup as player and boss as he helped restore his nation’s reputation

- ANDY LINES

ELEGANT, brilliant and inspirational to millions of people across the world, Franz Beckenbauer was far more than just one of the greatest footballers of all time.

His behaviour on the pitch as well as his numerous triumphs helped to rebuild Germany's battered reputation after the Second World War.

Beckenbauer, who has died aged 78, is one of only three men to have won the World Cup as a player and a manager.

The sublime defender seemed to be able to sweep up any mess on the field, but with his personal life he did not "sweep his mistakes under the carpet", according to a team-mate.

Beckenbauer, nicknamed Der Kaiser - the Emperor was regarded as Germany's finest-ever sportsman.

He became good friends with Sir Bobby Charlton who he manmarked in the 1966 World Cup Final at Wembley, when England beat West Germany 4-2.

The two all-time greats maintained their close relationship until Sir Bobby's death three months ago, aged 86.

Beckenbauer suffered ill health for several years. He had Parkinson's, dementia and heart problems.

Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish said: "It fills me with deep sadness to hear about the passing of Franz Beckenbauer, a true icon of the game.

"It was a privilege to share one of my proudest moments with him when he presented my 100th cap for Scotland."

Former England striker Gary Lineker said Beckenbauer was "the most beautiful of footballers who won it all with grace and charm".

Ex-Scotland midfielder Paul Lambert said Der Kaiser made his role as sweeper look so ridiculously easy "he could have kept his suit on most of the time".