Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has claimed that Manchester United outcast Bastian Schweinsteiger "deserves" to play.
The German World Cup winner has been shunned from the first-team squad by manager Jose Mourinho.
There were reports that the 32-year-old could leave the Red Devils in the January transfer window, but he opted to stay put and fight for his place.
"I really hope that Bastian gets some consideration soon," Neuer told reporters. "We all know he's one of the best midfielders in the world. He belongs on the field for Manchester United and not training individually."
United are experiencing a difficult time in the Premier League as they have only earned victory once since August and they were beaten 4-0 by Chelsea at the weekend.