Former England international Trevor Steven believes Mesut Ozil’s attitude at Arsenal has completely changed following the appointment of Unai Emery over the summer.
The Gunners have racked up ten wins in a row and sit joint third in the Premier League, just two points behind leaders Manchester City.
Emery has handed Ozil the captains armband and the former Germany international has repaid the faith shown in him. Ozil has netted four goals and provided one assist in nine appearances for the Gunners this season.
The 29-year-old was the star of the show during Arsenal’s 3-1 win over Leicester City on Monday night. The former Real Madrid man scored his sides first goal and played a key role in both of Aubameyang’s goals.
Former Everton and Rangers winger Trevor Steven believes Emery is the reason behind Ozil’s improved performances.
“Ozil is meant to be the iconic figure at the club and is their highest earner,” Steven wrote in his City AM column.
“Ask anyone in German football and they’ll tell you he can do anything – but his attitude has been wrong.
“Now that seems to have changed. He appears to get it.
“He was in need of some love after his acrimonious international retirement in the summer. Arsenal have given it to him.
“Being made captain on Monday was recognition from Emery that Ozil has embraced a more collective approach.
“It’s also a smart move that gives him greater responsibility. He can’t shirk his role as a leader.”
Arsenal are back in action tomorrow evening when they take on Sporting Lisbon in the Europa League. The Gunners will be hoping to extend to maintain their winning run in the Premier League when they face Crystal Palace this weekend.
