Arsenal Vs Spurs: Okay then Mesut, prove me wrong

Mesut Ozil was superb in Arsenal’s 5-1 win over Bournemouth. But on Saturday, versus Spurs, he has a chance to prove me wrong. I hope that he does.

It is these kinds of matches that make me fall in love with Mesut Ozil once more. And it has nothing to do with the statistics, however, brilliant they may be — one goal, one assist, four chances created, 97% pass completion rate, including in the final third, six ball recoveries, which is astonishing for a player usually labelled as lazy and unwilling. It is solely to do with the joy that he brings when he plays.

Find the latest episode of the Pain in the Arsenal Podcast here — BATE Borisov and Mesut Ozil fanboys

The goal was just a part of it. The ‘squeeze ball’ technique — I have no idea if it is called that, but that is what I am going to call it from now on — to kick the ball into the ground so that it diverts up and over the goalkeeper is sensational. But there is so much more beauty to his game than just watching the net ripple. And Ozil, as someone who has always valued the assist over the goal, would want us, as fans, to recognise that greater element of grace.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

• 3 standout players from 1-0 victory over Everton
• 3 positives & negatives from Goodison Park victory
• Arsenal vs PSV preview: Prediction, team news & lineups
• 3 talking points from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park
• Mikel Arteta provides Gabriel Martinelli injury update after Everton win

The way he floats across the ground, lending the ball to his teammates as he drifts across the pitch. His timing of passing, waiting as long as possible to draw the defenders towards him before slipping balls into the space they vacated. His decision making is impeccable, he carries an air of elegance, a throwback creativity that is just wonderful to sit back and behold. This was Ozil at his very best, a fleeting sign, it must be said, so far this season.

I am one of the biggest Ozil fans, when it comes to his talent and the beauty of his play. But over the past year, I have soured on his production and his utility. Ozil is a player of rare ability, he is a gifted footballer unlike many that I have ever seen. But he has not always translated his potential and his powers into production. Well, on Saturday, he gets the perfect chance to show that he can.

One of the major criticisms levelled at Ozil has been his tendency to go missing in the big games. While other top players in the Premier League like Eden Hazard, Harry Kane, and Kevin de Bruyne tend to elevate their games for the big occasion, Ozil often shies away from the spotlight, unwilling to shoulder the responsibility of being the team’s catalyst.

This weekend, Arsenal travel to Wembley for the second league North London Derby of the season. It will be one of the most momentous matches of the season. With a win, Arsenal could pull to within one point of their rivals and suddenly begin dreaming of a third-place finish, which would represent real progress for Unai Emery in his first term.

These are the matches that Ozil is needed in. These are also the matches that Emery has struggled to trust him in. His inconsistent work rate, his lack of defensive help and discipline. They are clear reasons for Ozil to be dropped for these high-intensity contests, especially those that are away from home. If I was Emery, I too would be dropping Ozil for matches.

And so the stage is set. A resurgent Ozil. A match that he usually shies away from. His doubters waiting for a mistake. The time is now for Meust Ozil to disprove the world.