Bayern Munich general manager Uli Hoeness has urged Jurgen Klinsmann to stay on as Germany coach.

Klinsmann, 41, silenced critics opposed to his appointment in July 2004 - when he succeeded former international team-mate Rudi Voller - by guiding the Germans to the World Cup semi-finals in his first ever managerial post.

The World Cup hosts appear revitalised under the stewardship of the former Bayern, Internazionale and Tottenham striker and produced several inspired performances before bowing out against Italy.

Klinsmann is now assessing his options as his current deal with the German Football Association (DFB) prepares to expire.

And Hoeness has joined Franz Beckenbauer in insisting Klinsmann must be in charge of the national side for the upcoming Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.

Hoeness said: "Jurgen Klinsmann and his team have performed incredibly.

"He took over the squad when they were at rock-bottom and has brought fun into the game and given back to the fans their love of football.

"We are extremely satisfied with him. It is very, very important for German football that he stays."

Germany face Portugal on Saturday in the third-place play-off in Stuttgart.