Friday 7 April 2017 16:04, UK
Arsene Wenger insists Mesut Ozil “cares a lot more than people think” about Arsenal as he defended the midfielder’s work rate.
Ozil has been criticised for some lacklustre displays in recent months and struggled to have an influence in the Gunners' 2-2 draw with Manchester City last weekend.
After the match, Ozil was strongly criticised by Gary Neville for failing to go in for a 50/50 challenge "when his manager's backside is on the line".
However, the 28-year-old bounced back with an improved display in midweek as he opened the scoring against West Ham and set up another for Theo Walcott in a 3-0 win, and Wenger insists the Germany international is misunderstood.
"He cares and people often reproach him because of his style of play, but he cares much more than people think he does," Wenger said.
Wenger spoke after Wednesday's win about how Ozil struggled mentally in the wake of Arsenal's humiliating 10-2 aggregate defeat to Bayern Munich in the last 16 of the Champions League, and he expanded on that topic in his Friday morning press conference.
"He [Ozil] is very ambitious. He wants to win the Champions League. He has come out many times saying that," Wenger explained.
"It was difficult to take for everybody. I believe that it was more difficult for him as it's a big part of his ambitions."
The Frenchman was less forthcoming when questioned on his future, stating the club will make an announcement in due course and he is focused on Arsenal's next game against Crystal Palace, which is live on Monday Night Football.
"The club [will announce any decision]," Wenger said. "I have nothing to add to that. My job is to plan for the future of the club."
"I cannot tell you anything more than what I have said many times. I can understand that the subject is of interest, but for me what is of interest is on the pitch.
"Sport is about your next performance. It's down to you to change things. What is to be professional is to focus on what is important - that means performance."
Wenger also confirmed third-choice goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez will again deputise against Palace.
The 24-year-old stepped in for the win over West Ham with Petr Cech (calf) and David Ospina (back) sidelined, and neither will be fit for the game at Selhurst Park.
Laurent Koscielny (Achilles) remains absent as does Lucas Perez (thigh), while Francis Coquelin returns after missing the midweek win due to personal matters.
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