BERLIN: Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger announced his retirement from international football on Friday, bringing to an end a glittering career that ended in disappointment with a semi-final exit at Euro 2016 in France.

"It wasn't to be and I have to accept it," the 31-year-old said in a statement on his verified Twitter account (@BSchweinsteiger).

"The historic and emotional high was winning the World Cup in 2014," the Manchester United player added.

* Has an injury disrupted first season with United, but was selected by Germany manager Joachim Loew for the 2016 European Championship, his seventh major tournament.

* Played five games in Euro 2016 as Germany reach the semi-finals where they lose 2-0 to hosts France.

* Announces retirement from international football, after making 120 appearances for his country, with a record of 81 wins and 20 defeats. He scored 24 goals for Germany.