Lahm’s extension will not influence Schweinsteiger

Bayern Munich star Bastian Schweinsteiger said on Saturday the decision of his Germany team-mate Philipp Lahm to extend his contract will not influence his own decision on whether he stays at the club.

Spanish giants Real Madrid are rumoured to be chasing Germany star Schweinsteiger and Bayern are keen for their playmaker to sign an extension to his contract which expires in 2012.

Last week, Germany defender Lahm signed a contract extension which keeps him at Bayern until 2015, but Schweinsteiger says he will not be swayed by his team-mate’s decision.

“The fact Philip has decided to extend his contract plays no role in my decision,” Schweinsteiger told German daily Bild.

“I will not let me put myself under pressure.”

Last week, Schweinsteiger hinted he would be happy to extend his contract and Bayern president Uli Hoeness has said the German giants are set to offer him a deal.

“We will not be mean, because we know precisely the importance he has for us,” said Hoeness.