Arsenal Vs Newcastle United: 5 things we learned from

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LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 16: Mikel Merino of Newcastle United tackles Mesut Ozil of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Newcastle United at Emirates Stadium on December 16, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) /

1. Majestic Mesut Ozil marvels

Mesut Ozil was not playing in his usual attacking midfield position. Akin to Kevin de Bruyne’s adaptation of position under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, Ozil also slipped into a deeper starting role, often initiating attacks by receiving the ball from the centre-halves. It worked.

Ozil had 123 touches. He made 116 passes, of which more than half (65) came in the final third. He had a pass completion rate of 90%, had a 5.2% share of the possession, and, perhaps most amazingly, created seven chances; no other player created more than four.

Ozil was masterful. With an equal blend of control and creativity, both calmed, and commanded, proceedings and prodded and probed the Newcastle defence. His interlinking play with Jack Wilshere, Alexis Sanchez and Alex Iwobi was wonderful at times, if a little delicate, and he showed an odd desire and commitment that has been questioned of him in the past.

Next: Arsenal Vs Newcastle United: Player ratings

When Ozil it playing at his imperious best, football is a lovely game to watch. Beautiful, many would say. Against Newcastle, he was at his best. He also happened to score a goal of real quality. What a wonderful player.