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Ballack: Bastian is priceless

Cape Town - Michael Ballack has urged Germany national team coach Joachim Low to include Bastian Schweinsteiger in his final 23-man squad for Euro 2016.

The Germany captain has had a season to forget in his debut campaign for Manchester United, poor form and injuries have restricted the 31-year-old to just 18 league appearances since his £6.5 million move from Bayern Munich.

However, the former Germany skipper feels Schweinsteiger's influence and leadership makes him an indispensable member of Die Mannschaft - regardless of his form or fitness.

"His situation has not changed much since March. The question is now whether it makes sense to take him to France. I think there is a realistic chance he can and will help the team," the former Bayern midfielder told Welt am Sonntag.

"He will definitely not be 100 per cent fit because there is simply not enough time. He will miss match rhythm. But it is not all about being 100% fit for someone like him.

"Bastian is the kind of player who is priceless for a coach because of the way he leads a team at a major tournament. He is a player who commands respect from your opponents," he added. 

"He is indispensable for Germany. Leaving him at home is only excusable if his health does not permit him to go.

"I think he can play a role at the Euros. I would totally understand it if the coach includes him in the squad even if he knows Schweinsteiger could miss the first two games or so."

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