Schweinsteiger wants Germany to show 'fighting' spirit at Euro 2012

Bastian Schweinsteiger has called upon his Germany team-mates to show some fight during the course of their European Championship campaign.

Under Joachim Low's tutelage, die Mannschaft have received universal acclaim for their free-flowing, attractive football, but the Bayern Munich midfielder claims they should also incorporate an aggressive edge to their game.

"We need a certain amount of aggressiveness," he told DFB.de. "You can win games not only by playing attractively. Therefore it's important that we show the 'German' virtues, as well as attractive play."

The Euro 2008 finalists begin their bid for continental glory with a tricky fixture against Portugal on Saturday, a match the 27-year-old feels his side must win in order to set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.

"The first game is important. This can give us a boost," he noted.

Finally, Schweinsteiger allayed any fears that he would not be sufficiently fit for the Portugal game, having sat out his nation's friendly with Israel because of a calf injury.

He added: "I'm fine - I have no problems. And it's just fun to play with such a team."

Germany will also have to deal with Netherlands and Denmark if they are to progress to the quarter-finals of Euro 2012.