Mario Gomez blasts "rubbish" criticism of Bastian Schweinsteiger

Germany striker Mario Gomez has hit out at criticism of his teammate Bastian Schweinsteiger, who has been accused of being in poor form at Euro 2012.

The 27-year-old was targeted by critics for his performance during Germany's 4-2 win over Greece in the quarter-finals.

"[Schweinsteiger's] had a very difficult season behind him; he had a lot of injuries," Gomez told Sportbild. "He isn't at 100 per cent yet, but now that three days [have] changed opinions on him is false.

"He was tired after the first game, he was world class after the second and he was tired again after the third. This discussion is really rubbish. [Germany manager Joachim Low] knows best what's good for him and what he needs."

Gomez, who was left out of the starting lineup for the quarter-final clash, could return to the first XI for Germany's semi-final against Italy tomorrow.