Arsene Wenger has highlighted why Mesut Ozil is still struggling to rediscover his best form after receiving much criticism. 

The Germany international began this campaign with a string of brilliant performances which saw him score his first hat-trick for the club against Ludogorets in the Champions League.

However, Ozil been slammed by several fans and pundits for his form ever since the 2-1 defeat to Everton back in December.

The 28-year-old, who is yet to extend his contract at Arsenal, is not enjoying his football at the moment and according to Wenger, there are various factors contributing to that.

“I’m not a psychiatrist,” the Arsenal boss responded why asked about why Ozil is struggling

“I think confidence plays a part. Ozil is a guy who needs possession and with possession he is a marvellous player.

“Did I expect a big game mentality when I signed him? Yes. But he has been a bit analysed a lot. He suffered a lot from the loss of Cazorla because Cazorla in deep midfield can get you out of pressure.

“He gets the ball played through to a player who is higher up and then Ozil is a player who, with the timing of the pass, with the ball at the right moment, he can always do damage.

“He had 17 or 18 assists last year, he has less this year, but especially his numbers dropped as I told you since we had less collective possession in deep midfield, provide less ammunition for the high midfield.

“But I don’t want to make a debate about one player before a game like this. It’s not Ozil alone who will win us the game. It’s a strong team performance.

“Everybody owes us a performance. If you play for Arsenal, you always owe us a performance. You cannot say you want to play for Arsenal and not perform. Everybody wants to perform of course.”

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