Louis van Gaal's criticism of Bastian Schweinsteiger 'unfortunate,' says Germany coach Oliver Bierhoff

The 31-year-old has struggled for fitness and form since joining from Bayern Munich in the summer

Bastian Schweinsteiger (Getty)

Germany coach Oliver Bierhoff has labelled criticism aimed by Louis van Gaal at Bastian Schweinsteiger as “unfortunate” and backed him to feartue for his country at the European Championship.

The 31-year-old has struggled for fitness and form since joining from Bayern Munich in the summer, where he played under Van Gaal, but the Manchester United manager has previously said he does not recognise the midfielder from his younger self.

Discussing Schweinsteiger's fortunes at Old Trafford, Bierhoff told Bild: “Every player needs the backing of the coach, the same goes for Bastian. Generally, I find it unfortunate if a coach publicly criticises a player so hard.

“I think with the prospect of participating as a captain in a European Championship, motivation and concentration will come back [for Schweinsteiger].

“On Bastian's position, competition is keen, which we already say from the World Cup. I assume that Bastian will be at the Euros. He is an important part of the team.

“I am in constant contact with Bastian. His current injury doesn't worry me. Generally speaking, I think it's good if players are able to completely recover from their injuries.

Oliver Bierhoff and Germany manager Joachim Loew (Getty)

“I know Bastian is absolutely focused on the Euros, and I have every confidence that he will prepare thoroughly and do anything for it. He is in our plans.”

Meanwhile, Van Gaal insists their win over Shrewsbury must set them up for Europa League recovery. “Everybody shall say it is against Shrewsbury Town and Manchester United has to win but we have seen very difficult results in the FA Cup, not always the top team is winning," he said.

“So I think we have done it fantastically. I have congratulated my players, I was very pleased but now we have to beat Midtjylland because it is also possible to beat them. But it is not easy because Midtjylland are very well organised, we have seen that in the away game.

“But still everything is possible. We're still in three competitions, so we have to fight for a lot of chances I think.”