Pundit urges Wenger to drop Mesut Ozil for Arsenal v Liverpool clash

Former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino has called for Arsene Wenger to bench his star playmaker Mesut Ozil.

The Germany international has come under heavy criticism over the past seven days following Arsenal’s defeat to Stoke City.

Ozil played the full 90 minutes during his sides 1-0 loss to the Potters. Despite creating ten goal-scoring chances, the former Real Madrid man bore the brunt of most of the criticism aimed at Arsenal.

Cascarino believes Arsenal manager Wenger should drop Ozil from the starting lineup for their clash with Liverpool today.

“Arsenal have to try and match Liverpool for effort and intensity both in and out of possession,” Cascarino told The Times.

“Only once you compete in that area can you think about controlling the game. 

“This means that Mesut [Özil] starts on the bench for me. 

“Get three in midfield — maybe Granit Xhaka, Aaron Ramsey and Mohamed Elneny — to ensure that the back five have an easy out ball and provide a match for Jordan Henderson and Emre Can in the middle.”

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Ozil could be on his way out of the Emirates next summer for free if he doesn’t strike a new deal with Arsenal.

The 28-year-old has won three FA Cup’s since joining the north London-based club from Real Madrid back in 2013. Ozil racked up 14 assists and 12 goals in 44 appearances for the Gunners last season.

Arsenal face Liverpool today at Anfield, kick-off is scheduled for 16:00 (GMT).