We have no Messi or Ronaldo, we have a great team - Beckenbauer

Franz Beckenbauer says Germany's World Cup win proves the unity in the team compensates for their lack of a superstar like Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.

Joachim Low's side were crowned world champions on Sunday following a 1-0 win over Argentina, thanks to an extra-time goal from Mario Gotze.

And Beckenbauer heaped praise upon the German side and the coach, insisting the team is the real superstar.

"Joachim Low has done everything right," he told Sky Sport. "The German team is entirely worthy world champions, because it was the best team in this tournament.

"They were the best ambassadors for Germany it was the success of the whole team, we had no Messi or Ronaldo, we had no absolute superstar. The Superstar was the team.

"The German team will be very hard to beat. I will not make the mistake and say they will be unbeatable for years to come."

The former Bayern Munich defender also singled out Schalke defender Benedikt Howedes for his displays throughout the tournament.

"He played in a completely different position and put in class performances. The he passed the test with flying colors. Howedes has surprised me the most."