Mesut Ozil: Arsenal ace receives the Laureus award for using World Cup bonus to pay for 23 Brazilian children to have life-saving surgery

Gunners' midfielder was handed the award for his charity work last night

Mesut Ozil pictured with his Laureus award last night (twitter.com/mesutozil1088)

Well played, Mesut Ozil.

The Arsenal midfielder will not be seen on a football pitch again until early January at the earliest while he recovers from a knee injury, but he was out in Germany last night receiving the Laureus award for his charity work.

The 26-year-old Gunners' player was handed the award for using his World Cup bonus to pay for 23 Brazilian children to have life-saving surgery.

"We had the idea to help 23 children, because we had 23 players in the [Germany World Cup] squad," Ozil said.

Post by Mesut Özil.

"And they underwent surgery, which was successful. I am very thankful. The doctors did a great job. I am very happy because it goes well for the children.

"This award will get a very special place at my home.

"Thank you for this Laureus award," he said.

"I promise that this will be the beginning of further projects for disadvantaged children."