Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has defended Mesut Ozil, after he received criticism for his perceived lack of effort in recent weeks.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger leapt to the defence of star man Mesut Ozil, claiming that the German’s body language goes against him in regards to people’s perception of his work-rate, as quoted by the Evening Standard.
The 28-year-old moved to the Emirates on transfer deadline day in the summer of 2013 for £42.5 million, and on the most part he has impressed for Arsene Wenger’s men.
Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil
He has scored 29 goals and registered 41 assists in 139 appearances for Arsenal during his time at the club, but it has been his inability to have a direct impact in big games which has led to pundits and fans questioning his commitment to the club.
Wenger, though, stood by his player, and explained how the German’s work ethic actually goes under the radar, as quoted by the Evening Standard:
“Ozil is a big player and the big players always respond on the pitch. No I don’t give him any leeway defensively, he has to do is job like everybody else. His main strengths are when he has the ball. He suffers more when we don’t have the ball. He suffered more than others at City. Unfortunately if you want the ball you have to win it back. He is a guy who works harder than people think – his body language goes against him.”
Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil
Ozil is currently embroiled in contract talks with the Gunners, with only 18 months remaining on his deal with the club, and despite the criticism levelled at him, he still remains one of the most important players for the north London outfit.
Next up for Arsenal is a home game against West Bromwich Albion on Boxing Day.
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