Arsenal star Mesut Ozil will deliver for Germany, says Julian Draxler

Mesut Ozil has been backed to rise to the occasion for Germany in their World Cup opener against Mexico by team-mate Julian Draxler.

Arsenal playmaker Ozil, who endured a disappointing 2017-18 season, has found himself at the centre of a media storm since he and fellow Germany international Ilkay Gundogan were photographed with Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan in London last month.

Ozil has also struggled with the back and knee injuries that saw him miss the end of the club campaign and, though he will be fit, there is growing speculation in Germany that the World Cup winner will be left out of Joachim Low’s side for their tournament opener on Sunday.

However Draxler insists that Germany need Ozil at the peak of his powers if they are to enjoy success in Russia.

“All the noise about Mesut being subdued and not up to his best is not true and has been way over the top,” Draxler said.

“The debate about his body language has been raging for a couple of years but he is 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 and he will deliver.”

Ozil underwent two extra training sessions this week to prove his fitness to Low ahead of the World Cup, with the German coach noting that the 29-year-old had “made a good impression”.

Low also confirmed that Draxler would start. The Paris Saint-Germain playmaker said of Germany’s preparations: “We’re all focused. There’s a good atmosphere.

“Lots is being made of small things than needs to be. We can’t wait for the tournament to get underway.

He added: “We’re all raring to go. We want to start the competition with a win.

“Mexico have a strong team that can hurt you. We mustn’t underestimate them. However, when we show our quality, I’m convinced we’ll win.”