Manchester United news: Bastian Schweinsteiger announces his retirement from international football

The 31-year-old made his first appearance for the German national side in 2004

Bastian Schweinsteiger in action for Germany at Euro 2016 (Getty)

Germany captain Bastian Schweinsteiger has announced his retirement from international football.

The Manchester United midfielder, who was part of the 2014 World Cup-winning side, broke the news to fans via Twitter.

The German made his first appearance for the national side back in 2004 and went on to earn 120 caps, scoring 24 goals for his country.

Schweinsteiger had revealed in the wake of a disappointing Euro 2016 campaign that he would make a decision on his future but confirmed earlier today that he has requested to be left out of all future national squads.

"I have just asked the national coach not to consider me in the future in nomination for the national team," he said.

This follows the recent news that the German is facing the axe at Old Trafford as Jose Mourinho looks to trim down his squad.

With Paul Pogba’s arrival expected imminently, it seems Schweinsteiger has been deemed surplus to requirements under the Portuguese.

The 31-year-old enjoyed a mix season with United but ultimately failed to make a lasting impression with the Premier League side.

It remains unclear what now lies in store for the decorated German midfielder.