Bayern's Ribery claims he's being 'attacked' by opponents

As Franck Ribery attempted to defend himself against accusations that he is an unfair player, the Bayern Munich midfielder, in return, alleged he is being provoked on the pitch by opponents.

After being involved in a number of instances this season where Ribery has come under criticism for his physical antics, the 33-year-old insists he's not the problem as his adversaries attempt to get under his skin in an attempt to evoke an angry response.

"I know only too well that I need to watch my step," Ribery said in an interview with German outlet Sportbild, as translated by ESPNFC. "But I want to stress once again that I'm not an unfair player."

He added: "Since all the talk about me started, I've actually got the feeling that opponents are trying even harder to provoke me," he said.

"I'm a big name player - opponents know that these duels are being closely watched - so they try everything in their power to stop me."

Ribery claims this season is unlike any other as he maintains that rivals have been more physical than ever.

"This season, I'm being kicked, fouled, and attacked like never before.

"Perhaps, sometimes I do lose the plot for an instant. But only when I feel that my opponent is only intent on injuring me.

"I don't have anything against fair tackling and challenges, but when I get the impression that it's all about roughness to remove me from the game then I defend myself.

"Believe me, I don't want to hurt anybody in these moments and a minute later it's all forgotten about."

Despite his supposed dirty style of play, Ribery has only picked up one yellow card in all competitions.