Many fans believe that Sami Khedira is a flawed piece of merchandise. Here is a central midfielder that can't dribble like Iniesta, can't take free-kicks like Pirlo, doesn't burst into the box the way Lampard did in his heyday and can't pass like Xavi or Xabi. He is the opposite of a headline-grabber.

Some players seem beyond scrutiny and statistics. Khedira, meanwhile, is the type who supporters latch onto as the butt of their frustrations because they daren't criticise certain others. He's an easy target and will continue to be plagued by the naysayers until he leaves Madrid. It comes with his territory.

Though not outstanding in any area of the game, the midfield jack-of-all-trades makes a big contribution overall. Ancelotti is the latest in a series of coaches to have considered him a key player. He flies under the radar, but his absence is felt when he's missing. Several clubs will surely set their sights on him come the January transfer window.

It is odd that a Germany regular should so consistently find himself in the firing line in Madrid. Perhaps he will be appreciated better when he's gone. Doubtless his replacement will be more glamorous; whether he performs as well remains to be seen.