Germans turn on ‘dead frog’ Mesut Ozil

It seems churlish to use the word ‘crisis’ after only one defeat but Germany’s World Cup defence is looking increasingly nervous as criticism of Mesut Ozil reached abusive levels yesterday and players had to rebut reports of cliques and disunity in the camp.

Ozil is under increasing pressure after one German former player described him as having the body language of a ‘dead frog’. Another called for him to be dropped ahead of Saturday’s crucial Group game against Sweden in Sochi. Things have got so bad following the world champions’ defeat to Mexico in their opening game in Russia that general manager Oliver Bierhoff had to defend the Arsenal star at a press conference yesterday as the anti-Ozil campaign back in Germany reached a crescendo.

The midfielder has been heavily criticised for his poor performance against Mexico which has left Germany’s future in Russia in the balance as they prepare to face Sweden in what has become a must-win tie on Saturday.