Manuel Neuer reveals which goalkeeper inspired the way he plays football

You'd have thought that Manuel Neuer was one of a kind.

Never has a goalkeeper fallen so in love with the sweeper keeper role than the Bayern Munich stopper and he often uses his feet more than defenders. But the German isn't taking credit for that style of goalkeeping and he's pointed to Ajax and Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar as the main inspiration for his exciting style. Neuer told France Football:

"I do not think I was the main protagonist. One of the very first to have brought a new perspective was Edwin Van der Sar, who played a lot with his feet and allowed the position to enter a new phase. I was inspired by his style of play. I enjoyed the philosophy of Ajax – either watching videos or following their matches."