Football
Stephan Uersfeld, Germany correspondent 8y

Bastian Schweinsteiger to make decision on Germany future

Germany captain Bastian Schweinsteiger has said he will "take a step back" and think about his international future after the world champions' Euro 2016 exit.

Schweinsteiger, 31, overcame doubts over his fitness to lead Germany out in Thursday's semifinal against hosts France, but goals in each half from Antoine Griezmann saw them lose 2-0.

Despite a good overall performance, the Manchester United midfielder was responsible for the opening goal as his handball resulted in France being awarded a penalty just before the break.

Schweinsteiger said he has yet to make a decision as to whether he wants to play on for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, telling reporters: "I first need to take a step back now and think about it."

He said he had not thought about his future before Euro 2016 as his focus had simply been on proving his fitness after tearing his medial knee ligament at the end of March.

"I tried to put all my energy into the tournament," he said. "It wasn't that easy after those two injuries. The elimination is definitely very disappointing, but the team will continue on its path."

Schweinsteiger has so far won 120 caps for Germany, with 38 of those coming at a major international tournament, which already represents a world record. 

The midfielder -- who has now made 20 World Cup and 18 European Championship appearances -- overtook his former Germany teammate Miroslav Klose, who had played in 37 games at major tournaments.

Cristiano Ronaldo, who is set to play for Portugal in Sunday's final against France, is the leading appearance-maker at European Championships, with 20 to date.

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