Bastian Schweinsteiger injury: Germany captain could make shock return for Euro 2016 semi-final clash with France after he trained
German captain had been a serious doubt to miss the game after suffering ligament damage against Italy in the quarter-final
BASTIAN SCHWEINSTEIGER could be fit in time to play the Euro 2016 semi-final after he trained with the rest of the Germany squad on Wednesday.
The German captain had been a doubt to play against France after suffering a minor knee injury during the quarter-final win over Italy.
However, with Sami Khedira definitely ruled out, the veteran Manchester United midfielder could start in midfield for Joachim Low's team.
Schweinsteiger had played well in the 120 minutes against Italy, but missed a penalty in the shootout.
Speaking after the game, Low said:"Bastian picked up a minor injury.
"I hope and wish that he can make it. But one thing is clear: I will definitely not let anyone who is not 100 per cent fit play.
";I’ve done that in the past and I won’t make the same mistake twice."
Germany will be hugely boosted if Schweinsteiger returns as their squad has been rocked by key injuries.
Along with Khedira being out, striker Mario Gomez tore his hamstring against Italy and will miss the match, while centre-back Mats Hummels will be suspended after picking up a second yellow card.
After switching to a 3-5-2 formation to match Italy, Low is likely to return to a 4-2-3-1 formation against France.
Benedikt Howedes will play alongside Jerome Boateng in the centre of defence.
RELATED STORIES
Schweinsteiger will take his place alongside Toni Kroos in midfield, but it is not yet clear what Low intends to do with his front four.
Thomas Muller was pushed up front after Gomez was withdrawn against Italy, but he is much more effective in a deeper role.
Mario Gotze started the tournament as a 'false 9' but was also ineffectual.
Julian Draxler, Andre Schurrle and Lukas Podolski are all options to play alongside regulars Muller and Mesut Ozil.
