Manchester United midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger hopes to be back running within five days, able to kick a ball again in ten, and back playing by the end of March.
The Germany international has been out of action for over a month since sustaining a knee ligament injury in United’s 1-0 FA Cup win over Sheffield United in January.
In an interview with German newspaper BILD, Schweinsteiger confirmed he has no doubts over whether he will be able to represent his country at Euro 2016 in France this summer.
“Unless the tournament is brought forward to the start of March at short notice, it’s looking very good,” he told the tabloid.
Schweinsteiger believes his rehabilitation is going completely to plan, which will come as good news to injury-hit United.
“Ligament tears take time but heal absolutely fine. I know my body and everything will be ok.
“I’ll be able to start running again in five days’ time and should have a ball at my feet again in another five days after that.
“I should be back playing again in March.”
There has been much discussion in Germany over whether the World Cup winning captain’s form is good enough for him to lead the country in France this summer.
Former national team captains Oliver Kahn and Andreas Bremer have both expressed severe doubts, while United manager Louis van Gaal has also criticised the veteran midfielder’s form.
But Schweinsteiger can’t understand the criticism.
“Despite a ban and injuries, I’ve played 27 competitive games this season. Of course things could have been better but the whole debate is a bit exaggerated.
“There is 0.00% chance of me not being fit for [the European Championship].”
At any rate, the German remains a certainty to miss out on United’s Europa League second leg against Danish champions FC Midtjylland at Old Trafford this evening, as the Reds look to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg.
Image courtesy of JSMHEProduction via YouTube, with thanks.
