Ozil has not started a Premier League game for the Gunners in over a month due a knee problem.
He is in contention to return to Arsene Wenger’s line-up for the trip to Watford on Saturday.
Merson has become the latest pundit to take a swipe at the German maestro and the ex-Arsenal ace does not want to see him start at Vicarage Road.
He told Sky Sports: “I wouldn't put Mesut Ozil back into the side [against Watford].
“He doesn't work hard enough for the team. He is a top player but the least you can do is work hard.
“If you have got talent you have had a result - and he has talent - but I have seen players with much less talent than him have a bigger impact on games, which can't be right.”
Arsenal are currently fifth the Premier League table ahead of their clash at Watford.
The Hornets have enjoyed a fine start to the season and Merson says the Gunners will do very well to claim all three points.
He added: “This is a hard game for Arsenal. Watford were outstanding at West Brom.
“It would be a big result if Arsenal won here. I know Man City scored six at Watford but Arsenal are not in the same class.”