New Germany coach Jurgen Klopp says his team can help ensure "national pride is not entrusted to the wrong people" after a recent far-right election victory. The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party won 43.8% of the vote in Saxony-Anhalt, falling just short of an absolute majority.

Speaking at a news conference, Klopp stressed he is not a political "expert" but added: "I would very much like to reclaim the flag for myself, for all of us." He wants people to see the flag and think: "You are happy and realise how lucky you were to be born, grow up, or move to this wonderful country."

No far-right party has controlled a German state since World War Two. "I do not want to entrust national pride to the wrong people," said Klopp, who prefers "positive patriotism". He added: "I can be proud to be German while also being open-minded and diverse."

Klopp said football can "foster a sense of community, so that people can truly feel the power of sport".