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Arsenal news: Unai Emery makes defiant statement on Mesut Ozil rift rumours
UNAI EMERY has denied suggestions of a rift between himself and Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil.
Ozil missed Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over West Ham - their first of the season - due to illness.
Shortly after it was announced that the 29-year-old would miss the game, rumours of a bust-up with Emery started doing the rounds.
The alleged row was put to the Gunners’ chief after the match, and he was quick to dispel the notion of him falling out with the former Germany international.
“This week we've been working, focusing on this game, we want to go out and get the win in front of our home fans,” the Spaniard said.
"Why is this information (out there). It isn't true. I don't know who is telling you this information.
"He sat down with me and we decided that he would not play. He left training because he was going to his home because he is sick.
"Today he was here, I told him to come in if he feels better and he feels better today and before the match he was with the team.
"He is bad with sickness. There is no problem with the player, speak with the doctor he can explain better."
He sat down with me and we decided that he would not play
Victory over West Ham was Emery’s first competitive triumph since succeeding Arsene Wenger at the Emirates helm.
The former Sevilla boss was delighted with the win, telling Sky Sports: “The three points were very important. Today I saw good things, but also things to improve.
“It was very important for our supporters. After 1-0, the team was improving, the players, the substitute players made the difference.
“It was for that I am happy but there are things we must improve.
“More transition. For the second half we were speaking in the dressing room and to help more inside with two midfielders. We need the balance, in the first half we suffered more than we want.
“It is clear for us we need to improve. Also, the win gives the confidence for the players.
"The first half, we needed calm. The players, they show every supporter we want and can do the second half going forward with balance, and win the match.
“We need this control with possession with the ball and also going forward with balance, which is important.”