Everyone mentions the "confidence boost" signing Ozil had on the team, but Flamini is seemingly the forgotten man. On the pitch, he's been far more important for me. Every time the camera focuses on him he isn't spitting or blowing his nose out like 90% of players, but shouting and telling people where they should be. Per has said, too, that having a genuine defensive midfielder finally playing in of front him has really stabilised the back four.
I feel like these types of players are really unappreciated. Not just defensive players, but guys who play certain roles in the team. I watch Juventus and see players like Asamoah and Lichtsteiner. Players no-one would ever describe as "world class," but they know their job, can stand in multiple positions, and listen to what the manager tells them.