Neuer: Bayern cannot afford any slip-ups

09-Feb-2013 3:25:00 PM

The goalkeeper is eagerly anticipating Saturday's league match against Schalke, and has warned his team-mates not to underestimate his former club

Manuel Neuer has stressed that Bayern Munich cannot afford to lose focus ahead of their Bundesliga match against Schalke on Saturday.

The Germany international, who started his career at the Veltins Arena, has insisted that the Gelsenkirchen side should not be underestimated, despite their poor run of form.

"We can't allow ourselves any slip-ups, and the three points are a must," Neuer was quoted as saying on the official Bayern website.

"Schalke generally play well against big-name opponents, and they'll definitely be looking to trip us up. We have to be totally focused, and we’ll need the right attitude and form on the day."

Neuer also briefly discussed the appointment of Pep Guardiola as the Bavarians' new coach, but stressed that Bayern should not look too far ahead.

"I'm very relaxed about the arrival of Guardiola. It's a while before he's here. I cannot think about the Champions League final yet either. We will have to deal with Arsenal first in the round of 16."

Bayern sit at the top of the Bundesliga table with 51 points from 20 games.