By Daily Sports on June 17, 2018

This is Mezut Ozil’s time. That was the message from a fired-up Germany camp on Saturday night, as the world champions prepared to launch the defence of their crown against Mexico on Sunday.

Few players of Ozil’s stature have divided opinion as much as Arsenal’s £42 million midfielder, whose inconsistency and languid attitude last season was one reason the Gunners again finished outside the Champions League slots.

Off the field things have been even worse after Ozil and Germany team-mate Ilkay Gundogan, both of Turkish origin. They prompted outrage for being photographed with Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

But Julian Draxler leaped to Ozil’s defence on Saturday night, claiming he is the most valuable player in the Germany squad.

“All the noise about Mezut being subdued and not up to his best is not true and has been way over the top,” said Draxler. “The debate about his body language has been raging for a couple of years but he’s an exceptional player.

“He has technical abilities that are unparalleled. He’s probably our most creative player. He will be there when we need him. He will deliver.”

That sentiment was repeated by Thomas Muller, who added: “We are behind both of them. For us players, this is no longer an issue.”

The four-time champions have won their last seven opening World Cup games and have never lost against Mexico.

Draxler said: “Mexico can hurt you by pressing high up the field but if we believe in our qualities, we’ll be fine. We are united and not bothered by this other stuff.” (Daily Mail)

•Photo shows Ozil (R) and Draxler

Source Daily Sports

Posted June 17, 2018

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