Arsene Wenger reacts to Mesut Ozil’s display in Arsenal’s 5-2 win at Everton
The Arsenal manager lavishes praise on Mesut Ozil for his performance in a 5-2 win at Everton on Sunday
Arsene Wenger has claimed that Mesut Ozil is back to his best in an Arsenal shirt following Sunday’s 5-2 win at Everton.
The Germany international has attracted criticism this season following the 29-year-old’s disappointing start to the season.
Ozil struggled badly in Arsenal’s opening three games amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding his long-term future at The Emirates.
The World Cup winner has been linked with a move to their bitter rivals Manchester United in recent weeks in what would be a controversial transfer.
Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney broke the deadlock in the 12th miute to raise questions about Arsenal’s record on the road again.
However, Nacho Monreal equalised before Ozil netted his first goal of the season in the 53rd minute before the German teed up Alexandre Lacazette to make it 3-1 with 16 minutes to play.
Aaron Ramsey further extended Arsenal’s lead before Alexis Sanchez netted the north London side’s fifth goal of the Premier League game following Oumar Niasse’s late consolation.
Asked during his post-match interview whether Ozil was now back to his best in an Arsenal shirt, Wenger said:
“I would say yes. I told him after the game that a fit Ozil is completely different. If you’re not 100% at your best, no matter how good you are, you are at a handicap.”
Arsenal signed Ozil in a £42.5m deal from La Liga giants Real Madrid in the summer transfer window.
