Per - Ozil can handle physicality now

 By Lloyd Webb

Per Mertesacker says Arsenal fans are seeing the best of Mesut Ozil because he has become accustomed to the physicality of the Premier League.

The Germany midfielder is currently enjoying a purple patch of form with nine assists and two goals for the Gunners already this campaign.

Mertesacker admits Ozil may have struggled to adapt to the physical side of English football when he arrived two years ago, but the playmaker has since established himself as a key member of the Arsene Wenger’s side.

“He had some injury troubles for the first two years but now he has become a major figure in our game,” Mertesacker said. “In particular, his qualities are paying off and giving us an even better chance to win.

“He is in a focus now but we should not concentrate too much on him as we need him in the game and he can create special moments. He wants to score as well. His game has improved a lot and the physicality does not bother him anymore.

“The physicality in the first few years meant he grabbed some injuries, some major injuries, which pulled him back from gaining more confidence. It also prevented him from gaining more fitness which you need in the Premier League, so if he stays consistently on the pitch and gets these goals and assists, it gives him a lift in his game."