I only listen to the manager’s opinion says Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil

Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil has fired back at his critics during an interview with Sky Sports.

The Germany international has faced heavy criticism this season following an inconsistent 12 months. Ozil has been accused of going missing in the big games.

Former Arsenal centre back Martin Keown recently accused Ozil of “giving up on his team mates” while Jamie Redknapp stated that he was a “passenger” during the north London derby.

Ozil stated that he does not let external criticism affect him and that his trophies and statistics speak for themselves.

The former Real Madrid star went onto say that he only listens to his manager regarding his performances.

“The expectations are always high, which I guess is normally a positive, you could say,” Ozil told Sky Sports News HQ.

“But I know what I can do and it doesn’t affect me really. I’ve played for Real Madrid, I’ve played for Germany and I’ve had praise and criticism throughout my career and it’s only made me stronger.

“For me what’s most important, as I’ve always said, is the manager’s opinion because when it comes from him you know it’s the truth, be it positive or be it negative.

Ozil played a key role during Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United last weekend. The 28-year-old is expected to start tonight when the Gunners take on Southampton.

Arsenal currently find themselves in sixth place with 63 points after 34 games.

Arsene Wenger’s side are six points behind fourth placed Man City but do have one game in hand.

Ozil has 11 goals and 11 assists to his name for the Gunners this season.