Mesut Ozil “wears the Germany jersey with pride” regardless of what his critics may think, says the Arsenal star’s international team-mate Kerem Demirbay.
The 29-year-old playmaker has often divided opinion throughout his career, with questions inevitably asked of a creative influence that can drift in and out of games.
Ozil has, however, been thrust firmly under the spotlight over recent weeks, with both his on and off-field activity being dissected in minute detail.
A disappointing showing at World Cup 2018 did little to aid his cause, with players past and present quick to offer an opinion on a performer who has become a scapegoat for a group stage exit.