German Teammates Quick to Defend Özil
Stuttgart (MunichNOW Sport) / dpa) - Mesut Özil’s Germany colleagues have rushed to defend the Arsenal star after he was booed off the field in Stuttgart during Germany’s 1-0 win over Chile Wednesday.
“That is a cheek. To boo a player who is in a difficult situation is not on,” said Jerome Boateng.
Özil has struggled for his club Arsenal recently, being dropped after a poor performance and missed penalty in the Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich.
Against Chile, he was employed on the right flank and as a deep-lying forward during the game, but did not play to his best.
“I don’t have to search for a role for Mesut,” said Germany coach Joachim Loew. “I know in which positions he can play.
“I know what Mesut Özil can do. I have 100 per cent faith that he will find his form by the World Cup.”
Özil’s previous form made him the top scorer for Germany with eight goals as the country cruised to World Cup qualification.
His skilful performances also made him a darling of the fans with the Germany supporter’s club voting him player of the year in 2013.
That makes his sudden fall from grace in the eyes of the fans all the harsher.
“I find it a shame that a player like Mesut gets singled out like that,” said team manager Oliver Bierhoff. “In such a game I would want support.”
Lukas Podolski, who also plays with Özil at Arsenal, was adamant his team-mate and friend would bounce back.
“Mesut is an amazing footballer. He will bring us joy for Arsenal and Germany.”
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