Arsene Wenger admits Mesut Ozil needs a break

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that his star summer signing, Mesut Ozil, needs a rest but cannot have it just yet.

Wenger could not afford to rest Ozil through Arsenal’s busy festive period, and it’s shown as the £42 million German has looked tired.

Ozil enjoyed a winter break in each of his previous seven seasons playing in Germany and Spain so it is no surprise to see him struggling for fitness through the Christmas period.

“In Germany, they have a break and we had this same situation with Jens Lehmannin his first season here,” said Wenger. “We have to give Mesut a break – but not tomorrow night.

“He has played a lot. But we have had a little break since we played last Saturday at Manchester City and, hopefully, he has recovered.”

Ozil has not missed a match since signing for the club from Real Madrid in the summer and has completed eight league matches.

Ozil is a prolific chance creator and is leading the way at Arsenal having completed 36 key passes, including seven assists.