Schweinsteiger hopes to face Hungary in Euro bid

BERLIN: Bastian Schweinsteiger hopes to play his first football since tearing knee ligaments in March when world champions Germany host Hungary on Saturday in their fi nal Euro 2016 warm-up.

“My goal is to play on Saturday. I hope for 20, 30 minutes. It’s important to get some game practice,” said Germany’s captain ahead of the Gelsenkirchen friendly.

“I assume I’ll be subbed on at some stage.”

The 31- year- old Manchester United star tore the medial ligament in his knee while on Germany duty in March, having last played 90 minutes of football in January.

Germany open their Euro 2016 campaign in Group C against Ukraine in Lille on June 12, then face Poland four days later before playing Northern Ireland on June 21.

“Of course, I can’t go from zero to 100 percent, I need to get back into a rhythm,” he added.

Schweinsteiger has been here before.

His outstanding midf ield performances were a key factor in Germany winning the 2014 World Cup.

An ankle injury hampered his preparations for Brazil and he only made his first appearance off the bench in the second group game against Ghana.

He improved with each game as Germany progressed to the fi nal, where he was superb in their 1- 0 extra-time win over Argentina.

“He brings an incredible amount to the team,” said Germany defender Jerome Boateng.

“He pushes forward, even when the game isn’t going so well.

“He sets the pace and can calm a game. He’s our quarterback.”

Last Sunday, an inexperienced Germany team lost 3-1 to Slovakia, who will make their European championships debut in Group B with Russia, England and Wales.

Germany’s head coach Joachim Loew will demand a better display against Hungary. — AFP