THE BLOG BY CPD FOOTBALL | The World of Indian football and beyond by Chris Punnakkattu Daniel

Schweinsteiger ready to start on the bench

Bastian Schweinsteiger

Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger is having a tough time at the UEFA EURO 2012 as the Bayern star is still far away from his best. The 27-year-old midfielder is still nursing from various injuries he suffered in the last few months and he is self-critical about his performances at the continental finals.

“I played several misplaced passes against Greece, which are non-characteristic for me. Such things shouldn’t happen to a player like me,” said Schweinsteiger.

“To be honest, my ankle is causing difficulties to me. It’s about small movements, about explosivity,” he added.

Schweinsteiger didn’t train properly in last few days and he is hoping to get a few days of rest ahead of the semifinal match on Thursday. The Bayern star wouldn’t mind, if Germany coach Joachim Löw would take the decision to replace him in the semis.

“I wouldn’t have any problems, if the coach takes such a decision,” Schweinsteiger told. “The injury didn’t heal properly. But it’s not the time to take care of oneself. Hopefully we will be having two more games. I will struggle my way through it.”

Germany coach Joachim Löw will carefully monitor Schweinsteiger’s health in the coming days, before he takes a decision on this vital position in his team. Schweinsteiger could be replaced by Toni Kroos, if the vice-captain fails the battle with his fitness.