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Bastian Schweinsteiger stands by the controversial comments he made about his German team-mates at Euro 2012, insisting that they were said with the best intentions.
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The Germany vice-captain claimed that not everybody in Jogi Loew's squad seemed happy when the team scored, and alleged that he felt a stronger spirit at club level with Bayern Munich.
"I don't want anything bad, I just want us to get better and that the very last cog turns as well so that we can win against the big nations," he said. "It was just the way I perceived things. It should not be anything negative or (seen as a) criticism of the national team. I just want us to get better and that we all sacrifice ourselves for a big, common goal.
"I stick to my opinion, but I have already discussed it with (general manager) Oliver Bierhoff and the national team coach. There is not really much else to say - I am surprised with the attention it received. There are more important things."
Schweinsteiger is not expecting an easy game when Germany face the Republic of Ireland in a World Cup qualifier in Dublin later this week, saying that the combative style employed by the Irish makes them a tricky opponent.
"It is always something really special to play in Ireland," he added. "I have already had the pleasure of playing in Ireland. It is not easy to win there because the Irish are very strong and combative, they wear their hearts on their sleeves and have an experienced coach. In addition, they have a passionate crowd - the atmosphere there is always fantastic."
Meanwhile the national team's dispute over bonuses with The German Football Association (DFB) has reached an amicable conclusion.
DFB general secretary Helmut Sandrock and captain Philipp Lahm have agreed to proceed on the same terms offered for the 2010 World Cup qualifying process. Every player will be entitled to €20,000 per appearance but the money will only be paid upon their qualification for the tournament, with non-qualification resulting in no bonuses being paid.
"I am pleased that we have been able to reach an agreement so quickly and easily," said DFB president Wolfgang Niersbach. This shows once again how our relationship with the senior team is built on trust."
Germany have made a successful start to their qualifying campaign with victories against the Faroe Islands and Austria in their opening two games. The Republic of Ireland lie in wait on Friday night before the visit of Sweden four days later.