There's a lot to consider before you write an article about such a footballing legend. There's simply so much to write about with Franz Beckenbauer that deciding where to start becomes a real problem. Do we start with his impressive 13 year career with Bayern Munich, his numerous record-breaking, or his impressive effort in the ''Game of the Century'' where he played with an injury that would have taken out even the strongest footballers? So let's take a look at the playing career of one of footballs ultimate legends, Franz Beckenbauer.

Beckenbauer is widely recognised as one of the greatest defenders to have ever stepped onto a football pitch. His achievements alone bear testimony to his massive influence on sport, being the first person to win the World Cup as a captain and as a manager. Beckenbauer was born into a war-torn Germany and soon started playing football wherever he could. Franz was just 14 when he joined FC Bayern Munich.

Throughout his long career there was arguably one defining moment that will be remembered forever. It was the 1970 World Cup and Beckenbauer had captained his team to the semi-finals where they met a dominant Italian team. After all substitutions being made for Germany, Franz suffered a hard foul that lead to a fractured clavicle. Knowing a World Cup final place was on the line, Beckenbauer came back to play on with his arm in a sling, refusing to give in without a fight. Despite all of his efforts, Germany lost the game 4-3. This heroic sporting moment remains one of the most inspiring moments in footballing history. For that moment alone, Franz Beckenbauer will always be remembered.

Although Beckenbauer started out as a defensive midfielder, many consider him to be the inventor of the sweeper position. He would often be seen playing this role for Bayern and West Germany in such an effective way. Even to this day he is regarded as the ''Kaiser'' of German football, being considered the greatest German footballer of all times.