Joachim Löw has apologised for reaching down the front and back of his trousers during Germany’s opening Euro 2016 win over Ukraine, in view of the television cameras.

“I saw the pictures as well and obviously sometimes you do things subconsciously. It happened and I am sorry,” said the World Cup-winning coach on the eve of Germany’s Group C meeting with Poland in Paris on Thursday. “It was adrenaline and concentration. I will try to behave differently in the future.”

Löw was watching the game, which Germany won 2-0, intently from the bench when he shoved his hand into the front of his trousers and then smelled it afterwards. He also did the same at the back, with his actions triggering a variety of reactions and the clip going viral on social media.

When asked about his coach’s antics, the Germany forward Lukas Podolski said: “It’s not an issue. About 80% of you here have at some point scratched your balls. Therefore, everything is good.”

This is not the first time Löw, known for his dress sense and style, has been caught on camera in a compromising position, with the German having repeatedly been filmed sticking his finger up his nose and then putting it in his mouth.