Xhaka played in Swiss penalty defeat despite thigh muscle tear

Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka played in the Euro 2024 quarter-final defeat by England despite tearing a thigh muscle before the game.

Xhaka revealed after the 5-3 penalty loss following a 1-1 draw that he had been diagnosed on Monday following an MRI scan. He could not train all week and returned to the training pitch only on Friday.

"I felt fit enough. I had no pain the day before the match," he told reporters. "I felt that the team needed me and I wanted to help."

The 31-year-old, who only lost one match all season with Bayer Leverkusen in the last campaign, added: "These things make you stronger.

"I don't think you can say anything bad about anyone in the team or the staff. Whether the result is fair or unfair, it doesn't matter. Everyone gave their all and we can be proud. We didn't have luck on our side in the penalty shoot-out."

The Swiss, who beat holders Italy 2-0 in the last 16, were bidding for their first semi-final at a major men's football tournament.

The Nati arguably had the better chances against the fitful English, but Manuel Akanji saw his effort saved in the shoot-out.

Coach Murat Yakin's contract is expiring and his future remains up in the air, with reports saying Arab teams are interested in him.

"It hurts. We put so much effort in, created so many chances," the coach said.

"I'm sad for the guys, and for the nation. England didn't have many chances and we created quite a few of our own. We don't deserve to be going home but we can be really proud."

On what he said to Akanji, Yakin added: "There are no words of solace. I thanked him for his performance and for his leadership."