Ozil hits back at 'unfair' criticism

Mesut Ozil feels that he is being unfairly criticized this term and has stressed that he cannot be held solely responsible for the club's disappointing results so far this term.

The Santiago Bernabeu side trails archrival Barcelona by 11 points in the Liga table, and Ozil's relatively poor form seen by many as one of the reasons for Blancos' struggles in the opening months of the 2012-13 campaign, much to the midfielder's dismay.

"Generally speaking, the people always seem to expect extraordinary performances. Putting in a normal game isn't enough any more. That already leads to criticism. You have to get used to that at a club like Real Madrid," Ozil told Kicker.

He added, "I am always willing to listen to constructive criticism. However, people forget about my good games. A lot depends on the team's performances. We have not always shown what we're capable of. We have made too many mistakes."

Ozil believes that player form is usually a result of team results but insists that he and Sami Khedira are being unfairly blamed for Madrid's poor start.

"The team has missed its start and people will always criticize one or two players. Unfortunately, it's always Sami Khedira and I, and nobody else," Ozil insisted.

"A team like Real Madrid win together and lose together. My third season at Madrid is a bit bitter because the team makes too many mistakes. The season is still long, though. We will be back."

Ozil has made 14 Liga appearances this term, netting twice and creating three more.