Bayern Munich head coach Jupp Heynckes insists he is ready to turn to ‘leaders’ Thomas Muller, Mats Hummels and Jerome Boateng in a bid to kick-start die Roten’s Bundesliga and Champions League campaigns.

Heynckes begins his fourth stint in the dugout in tomorrow’s league visit of Freiburg before the German champions host Celtic in a crucial Group B clash four days later.

The trio have all had to be content with time on the bench so far this season.

But 72-year-old Heynckes insists the Germany internationalists have a big role to play under his stewardship.

Heynckes, who has replaced Carlo Ancelotti on a deal until the end of the season, said: “In team hierarchies, it’s necessary that players are leaders both on the pitch and in the dressing room.

“Thomas can do that. He’s smart enough, and we also recognise everything he’s already done for this club. 

“He’s still a tremendous player.We need a hierarchy and leaders who can decide on issues that concern the team, like Mats Hummels or Jerome Boateng. 

“They’re world champions and proven players. When they’re fit, they’re superb players. They also have to want to be leaders. 

“You can only do that through performances and your footballing intelligence, and also standing in the team.”

Meanwhile, former Bayern sporting director Matthias Sammer insists the club are in safe hands with Heynckes.

He said: “Absolutely, 100 per cent the right decision.

“Jupp looked as if he had never been away, he looks good and recovered. He is someone who knows this club inside and out and will do well.”