Germany coach Joachim Low has revealed he has told Lukas Podolski to speak to Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger to find out where he stands with the Frenchman, rather than letting matters drag on.
Podolski struggled for regular first team football during the first half of last season with Arsenal and sealed a loan switch to Italian outfit Inter in the winter transfer window as he sought minutes on the pitch.
He struggled to make his mark in Serie A and is set to return to Arsenal this summer, although he has been linked with Turkish champions Galatasaray. Now Low wants Podolski to be proactive with his situation.
Low told Welt am Sonntag: "I told Lukas that he should talk to Arsene Wenger.
"He should not let things come to him, but he should approach him to find out his plans for him", Low continued.
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"Is the coach planning with him? And if so, in which role?"
And Low is desperate for Podolski to be playing regular football, as he views him as an important asset for the Germany team.
"He has to think about what he wants. I want him to play, at least 30 to 40 games."
Low wants Podolski to be in top shape for Euro 2016 in France, where he could play a key role for Germany, and feels going two years without playing regularly would not be good ahead of a major tournament.
"He has to play", the coach said bluntly.
"Two years without any proper match practice would not be a good foundation in order to participate in Euro 2016."
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