Mourinho will make me an even better player, enthuses Ozil

22-Jun-2012 1:49:00 AM

The 23-year-old Germany international believes that he already works harder and contributes more from a defensive perspective because of the Portuguese coach

Mesut Ozil has credited Jose Mourinho with his improvement in previous seasons and believes that the Real Madrid boss will make him an even better player in years to come.

The Germany international's arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu coincided with that of the Portuguese, and the playmaker feels that the Blancos coach has improved his work rate and defensive qualities, but not to the detriment of his attacking capabilities.

"I have not lost anything in adapting to Mourinho's tactical discipline," Ozil told El Pais. "Forwards also must work. I have become more active and Mou will improve me even more.

"He has given me confidence and I am very grateful to him. I feel very comfortable there and that is why I have been able to play so well in recent seasons."

Ozil also revealed that Madrid captain Iker Casillas has also played an integral role in his impressive adaptation to the Spanish game.

"In Madrid, he is a legend and also a good friend who helps you in every way he can," he explained.

However, the former Werder Bremen man admitted that he has also been greatly influenced by two players currently plying their trade at Barcelona.

"I identify with Xavi and [Andres] Iniesta in the way we feel the football," he continued. "They are both very intelligent and their possession of the ball is incredible."

Ozil is expected to start for die Mannschaft in Friday night's quarter-final clash with Greece.