Bayern Munichstar Bastian Schweinsteiger has been ruled out of Germany’s upcoming friendlies against England and Italy.

The classy midfielder requires a second surgery on his troublesome ankle, and it is unclear how long he will be out of action for after going under the knife.

Schweini’s ankle has not improved after an initial surgery in June, and it is no longer wise for him to continue playing with the problem.

"The last few weeks have been very painful," Schweinsteiger said in a statement released by the Bundesliga champions.

"I tried but I have reached a point when renewed surgery is unavoidable.

“I hope to be able to play without any pain after the surgery."

Schweinsteiger’s injury compounds the problems Pep Guardiola has at the Allianz Arena, although you wouldn’t believe it considering Bayern’s record breaking start to the season.

Midfielder Javi Martinez has only just returned to action from injury, and is yet to regain full match fitness.

Winger Arjen Robben has not played for two weeks, while Xherdan Shaqiri and Thiago Alcantara are not expected to play again until the end of November.

Even without his pantheon of injured stars, Guardiola has masterminded Bayern’s unbeaten start to the season.

And ahead of their weekend league fixture against Augsburg, Bayern are sitting pretty atop the Bundesliga standings and have secured their place in the next round of the Champions League.