Holger Osieck has turned down the chance to assist Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann in what will be regarded as a significant to the German Football Association (DFB).

Osieck was head coach Franz Beckenbauer’s deputy during Germany’s 1990 World Cup-winning campaign, and his return to the international set-up alongside Klinsmann, was expected to be rubberstamped at today’s meeting. However, he failed to reach an agreement over his new role.

The DFB said the talks between the pair on Tuesday had taken place in a “relaxed and constructive atmosphere” but had ended with the two agreeing they could not work together.

The news is a blow to DFB’s plan to appoint the inexperienced Klinsmann as head coach while providing support in the form of the hugely experienced Osieck.

Under the plan, former Germany striker Oliver Bierhoff would been appointed as team manager.