Süle makes debut in German amateur league after retiring aged 30

Former Germany defender Niklas Süle began his amateur league adventure in an unusually attacking role, lining up in central midfield and up front for SV Tiefenbach near Karlsruhe on Sunday. The 30-year-old former Bayern Munich centre back retired from professional football at the end of last season when he left Borussia Dortmund. He said his comparatively early retirement was so he could spend more time with family while not having to worry about injury. Despite a headed goal from the former Champions League winner, Tiefenbach suffered a heavy 7-2 defeat against SG Kirchardt. Asked whether he enjoyed the game, Süle told reporters: "As much as a 7-2 loss can be fun." Around 500 spectators turned up to watch the former Bundesliga stalwart, whose professional career was dominated by debates about his size and fitness.