Picking a 96 Legends XI
Although the Reds have a lot, what they don’t currently have is a Legends XI, filled with talents from years gone by.

We have selected 43 players – all of whom have rightly earned their place in the history of Hannover 96 – from which you can choose your own Legends XI.

There are names included that are recognisable to all, whereas there are also several of our former players who remain slightly less prominent to some fans. We would like to present one of the latter to you today.

Heinz Steinwedel
Today in focus is Heinz Steinwedel, a Hannover born-and-bred player who really is a “genuine” Red. Born in May 1938, Steinwedel initially played for the Hannover 96 youth team. He progressed and impressed quickly, however, and soon after made his debut wearing the traditional wine red shirt in August 1959.

Between 1959 and 1963 the youngster played in 97 Oberliga games for Hannover. Playing as a holding midfielder, he became instrumental for the team during Regionalliga season 1963/1964 where the team won promotion to the Bundesliga via the playoffs.

Heinz Steinwedel today

First Bundesliga captain
Heinz Steinwedel was the first player to lead a Hannover 96 team onto the field in the Bundesliga as captain. It was a historic day for Steinwedel and the club, and a day that will never be forgotten. The first game for the 96ers in the still relatively young Bundesliga took place in the “Rote Erde” (Red Earth) stadium, and was against Borussia Dortmund – a game in which the team’s leader was again inspirational, leading the Reds to a 2:0 victory.

Steinwedel ended his career when he was just 28 years old, but having only ever played for Hannover 96. He will forever remain in the history of Hannover 96 as the club’s first ever Bundesliga captain.

 - Daniel Moore