Ribery: I'm proud of my scar as it gave me strength

Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery has revealed that he is proud of his facial scar, explaining that it has long been a source of strength to him.

The France international was involved in a car accident when he was just two years old, which left him requiring 100 stitches for a head wound.

Ribery freely admits that growing up with such a prominent scar was difficult, but feels that the experience made him the man he is today.

"I'm proud of my scar," the 29-year-old said, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport. "It gave me strength and forged my character.

"You have to be mentally strong to withstand the ridicule of other children and the stares of adults."

Ribery is currently preparing for Bayern's crucial Champions League semi-final clash with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, with the Bavarians leading 2-1 on aggregate after last week's first leg at the Allianz Arena.