Manchester United star Bastian Schweinsteiger considering Germany retirement after Euro 2016 exit in semi-finals
BASTIAN SCHWEINSTEIGER is considering retiring from Germany duty after their semi-final exit at Euro 2016.
The Manchester United playmaker was asked about his future as he fronted up to the media in the wake of the 2-0 defeat to France.
And Joachim Low‘s skipper admitted he is not sure if he will pull on his country’s jersey again.
Schweinsteiger, 31, said: “I have not thought about it. I put all my energy into the tournament. After two injuries that was not so easy.
“In the first half I had a difficult time with injuries. I was glad to be here at all. We will see.”
Schweinsteiger is Germany’s fourth most capped player of all time on 120 – behind Lothar Matthaus (150) Miroslav Klose (137 and Lukas Podolski (129).
But he has struggled with injuries and looked off the pace last season after being brought to United by Louis van Gaal.
An injury to Sami Khedira meant Schweinsteiger was needed in midfield despite picking up a knee ligament injury in the quarter-final win over Italy.
Loew’s gamble may have backfired after the veteran midfielder gave away a penalty for handling Patrice Evra’s header – although he denies that it was deliberate.
Boss Low said: “We have to accept the decision. One need not be upset afterwards. There is this rule.
“Bastian has done well to meet tactical requirements. I did not know how long he would last.
“Considering that he was injured for so long, he has helped us.”
Schweinsteiger’s 38 appearances in major tournaments is a record for any European player.
And he believes the world champions are still in a good place despite failing to reach the final.
He added:”The elimination is definitely very disappointing, but the team will continue on its path.”
Schweinsteiger must now focus on recovering in time to prove his worth to new United boss Jose Mourinho, who is intent on bringing a world-class midfielder to Old Trafford.