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Podolski slams Mourinho, United

Cape Town - Former Arsenal man Lukas Podolski has joined a chorus of German voices in slamming the treatment of Bastian Schweinsteiger by Jose Mourinho and Manchester United.

The former captain of Germany has been exiled from the first-team squad by Mourinho and is currently training with the Under-23s.

The one-time skipper of Die Mannschaft joined United last summer, but failed to make a significant impact as injuries plagued his first season.

"When you look at the career Bastian has had, I can only say that what is happening there is simply not right for a player of his stature," Podolski told German publication Bild.

"I do not know what Mourinho has discussed with Bastian. But is clear that it is not okay to drop someone like Basti to the reserves.

"A coach should always keep his door open to all players, and especially to players like Schweini."

Schweinsteiger has been linked with a move away from United since Mourinho took over and could be headed for the door in January, with the MLS in the United States a possible destination.

Podolski, meanwhile, is also eyeing a move to the MLS from Turkish club Galatasaray: "I think America is great. Moving abroad is good for personality development and it would also be good for our children.

"Clearly it would be possible to play with Schweinsteiger in the States." Podolski concluded.

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