Neuer torn by Schalke return

Former Schalke goalkeeper Manuel Neuer said it was hard to play against his old side in the Bundesliga, as he helped Bayern Munich win 2-0.

Neuer’s clean sheet, and goals to Nils Petersen and Thomas Mueller, helped Bayern succeed in Gelsenkirchen to go two points clear atop the league table.

But Neuer – who transferred to Jupp Heynckes’ side in June this year – said he was preoccupied by returning to his former club for the fixture.

“I think I prepared myself in the right way. I know what the Schalke fans think of course, and I know the club well and I know that the fans are very passionate, so lining up against them was actually very hard for me,” the 25-year-old said.

Petersen said it was vital Bayern won to make it a happy homecoming for Neuer, who was born in Gelsenkirchen, while the striker also rued his miss in the second half.

“We knew we couldn’t mess around here today with it being Manuel’s return after his transfer, and Schalke are strong side,” Petersen said.

“Therefore I’m happy that my part of the team performed well, and that we’ve won the game for him.”

“It’s all the more better that I could make a contribution to the side by scoring, but that’s why Bayern spent money on me in the first place and that’s why I was brought in, to come in and take my chances.”

“I missed an opportunity in the second half to make it 2-0, but we’ve won the game so I mustn’t hang myself up for it.”

Bayern’s next league assignment sees them tackle Bayer Leverkusen at home on Saturday.