PSG striker Julian Draxler has jumped to the defence of Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil ahead of Germany's World Cup opener.

Ozil has prompted outrage for being photographed with Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

But Draxler leaped to Ozil's defence on Saturday night, claiming he is the most valuable player in the Germany squad.

"All the noise about Mesut being subdued and not up to his best is not true and has been way over the top," said Draxler. "The debate about his body language has been raging for a couple of years but he's 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. He will deliver."