- Premier League
I'm one of the best No.10's in the world, says Ozil
Mesut Ozil has warned he is wasted on the left because he is "one of the best players in the world" in the No.10 position.
The Arsenal midfielder told the Telegraph he believes the criticism he attracted during the World Cup - where Joachim Loew often deployed him on the left for Germany - was unfair and upsetting.
"I'm one of the best players in the world in that No.10 position,'' Özil told the newspaper. "Fans, coaches, players and everyone knows that my best position is playmaker.
"It's different playing on the left. When I was in Madrid, I often played on the right. I enjoyed that because I'm left-footed and I was able to cut inside to give assists and get shots on target.
"On the left, it's more difficult. If I do get past someone I'm still away from the danger zone, still on the flank, and it's harder for me to find the final ball with my right foot than with my left.
"Joachim Loew needed me on the left. It's not about the individual, it's about the team. It's not my favourite position but I was willing to play there for the team.
"It was difficult just before the tournament started that I was suddenly playing on the left and had a different role. I needed to get my bearings, which I did.
"I think I did my job well there. The boss saw me as being able to play on the right and we ended up as world champions."