Bastian Schweinsteiger Comments on Criticism, Performances for Manchester United

Manchester United midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has dismissed criticism of his recent performances, claiming he's playing just as well as he did when he won the 2014 World Cup with Germany.

Speaking to German outlet Welt am Sonntag (h/t Sun's Duncan Wright), he also took a shot at those who think he's too slow:

"

Honestly, I am not impressed by the criticism that has been brought up over me via the media.

I am currently playing on a level that is comparable to that during the World Cup [in] 2014.

'Old man’s football’ - that is an expression that was used back then, too. After the World Cup final those voices went silent.

I will never be able to compete with Usain Bolt. ...

… It was a good year for me, but not a perfect year. My performances in Manchester were really okay.

"

Schweinsteiger moved from Bayern Munich to Manchester United during the summer and took some time settling into the squad. He showed his class in a number of United's early matches, but his performances haven't been up to par of late.

The 31-year-old is yet to hand out his first Premier League assist and has scored only one goal so far, per WhoScored.com. His tackling and positioning have been solid, although he looked dreadful in the Champions League loss against Wolfsburg.

BT Sport Football's Raphael Honigstein thinks his form is an issue:

Schweinsteiger has been among the world's best at his position for years now, but it was telling Bayern were willing to move him without any issues last summer. The Bavarians brought in Juventus' Arturo Vidal, a younger and more energetic option, and parted ways with a club icon without seemingly giving it a second thought.

His partnership with Morgan Schneiderlin has looked dominant at Old Trafford at times, as the two present a formidable defensive duo ahead of the back line. Per Squawka Dave, his defensive contributions shouldn't be overlooked:

But the media criticism has to start somewhere, and while Schweinsteiger hasn't been as bad as some may have suggested, he certainly hasn't been as good as he was in 2014. It only makes sense―he had spent his entire career with the Bavarians up until last summer, and it will take time to get used to a new league, a new environment and a new type of football.

His lack of pace never held him back in the past, and given his passing range and ability to make up his mind in a hurry, there's every chance he'll age well and continue to play at the top level for a long time. The Red Devils can only hope he'll find his best form soon.

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