The former striker believes the Dutch coach should be more supportive and has warned the Germany international that competition for places is fierce ahead of Euro 2016
Germany team manager Olivier Bierhoff has criticised Louis van Gaal for his handling of midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger at Manchester United.
The Germany international, who has not featured for the Red Devils since the FA Cup third round victory over Sheffield United, is currently sidelined with a knee injury.
Van Gaal has admitted he expected more from Schweinsteiger and also claimed he needs to "change his mindset", but Bierhoff feels the Dutchman should be more supportive of his player.
"Every player needs the backing of the coach, the same goes for Bastian," he told Sport Bild. "Generally, I find it unfortunate if coaches publicly criticise their players so hard."
Bierhoff still expects Schweinsteiger to be part of Germany’s Euro 2016 plans, but has warned the midfielder he faces a fight for his place in the team.
"I think, with the prospect of participating as captain at Euro 2016, his motivation and concentration will return. It is important that Bastian is fully internalised at some point," he added.
"Competition is fierce for Bastian’s position, as we have seen at the World Cup. I assume that Bastian will play at the Euros. He is an important part of the team.
"We had a similar case with Sami Khedira, who was injured long before the World Cup. He played little but was still in Brazil. In the end, it depends on Bastian’s overall situation."
Germany coach Joachim Low is also confident he can depend on his captain this summer and says his current injury should not cause a problem.
"I am in constant contact with Bastian. The current injury does not worry me," he explained.
"Generally, it is good if players are recovering from their injuries completely. Often the risk of human injury is such that players return too early.
"I know Bastian’s absolute focus is the Euros, and I have every confidence that he will thoroughly prepare and do anything for it. We plan with him."
- Goal