Schmelzer gives up Dortmund armband

Marcel Schmelzer has announced he is giving up the Borussia Dortmund captaincy.

The left-back is a product of Dortmund's youth academy and has worn the armband for the Bundesliga side for the last two seasons.

But Schmelzer, who was dropped last month by Peter Stoger, is giving up the role as he says it has been too tiring.

"They were two strenuous and intense years that consumed a lot of energy," Schmelzer said in a statement. "It was my decision. I believe this is what's best.

"The game today [Tuesday] against Los Angeles [FC] will be my last game as captain for Borussia Dortmund.

"I'm proud to have served as captain for two years – and that I managed to win many titles with the club, one of which came as captain.

"But I also think that we have many players in the squad who are capable of taking on this role.

"Plus there's the fact that the club wishes to make a fresh start in the summer. With that in mind, it's only right that this role should be reallocated."

Dortmund announced the appointment of Lucien Favre on a two-year deal this week, the Swiss coach leaving Nice to succeed Stoger.