Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Arsenal news: 'I’m not finished yet' - Mesut Ozil sends defiant message to critics
ARSENAL midfielder Mesut Ozil has sent a defiant message to his critics
The former Germany international has come in for immense criticism during his time at The Emirates, most of which has come as a result of his body language.
But for as much criticism as he’s received, the 30-year-old has also been lauded for his moments of brilliance, which have drawn comparisons to those of Arsenal legend Dennis Bergkamp.
Ozil is flattered to have had his name mentioned in the same breath as Bergkamp but is determined to become a Gunners legend in his own right.
“The fans have backed me ever since I arrived five years ago and because of that, I’ve been able to play in my preferred style,” Ozil told Arsenal’s official website.
“I always want to control the game, give assists and help my team. It was like that with me from the start.
“In my position you have many possibilities playing forward. You can demand the balls, make telling passes or score yourself.
“I’ve been told so many times over the years that this is how Bergkamp played. Of course that makes me proud and it is an honour to be compared with him.
“Bergkamp is a living legend at Arsenal and he was an amazing football player.
I am Mesut Ozil and I’m not finished yet
“But I do not want to compare myself with anybody. I have my own style and I’ve had it since I was a kid.
“I am proud of these comparisons, but I am Mesut Ozil and I’m not finished yet.”
Unlike most players, Ozil’s love of setting up his team-mates far outweighs the thrill he gets when he finds the back of the net.
“Most kids only enjoy scoring goals but ever since I was young, I’ve always loved to give assists,” he added.
“Why? It’s simple really. Through giving an assist, your friend can score and you help your team. Whenever I receive the ball, I always think offensively so I can pick out chances to score a goal or assist someone.
“That’s why it’s normal for me to always get the ball and play it forwards.
“In my opinion, a creative player should always have fun on the pitch and should trust their playing style in order to help the team.
“I’ve been playing this way my whole life, which is why I still enjoy giving my team-mates assists to this day.”
Ozil and his Arsenal team-mates continued their good form on Saturday afternoon with a 2-1 victory over Newcastle.
They’ll return to action on Thursday night, welcoming Ukrainian side FC Vorskla Poltava to the Emirates for their first Europa League game of the season.