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Mesut Ozil 'hungry' for Arsenal return after three-month injury absence

Image: Mesut Ozil: Available for Stoke game

Mesut Ozil is ready to make a mark on Arsenal's season after pushing himself "to the limit" in his recovery from injury, according to Arsene Wenger.

Ozil is available for the Super Sunday game against Stoke and could feature for the first time since he damaged knee ligaments during his side's defeat at Chelsea on October 5.

The German World Cup winner's performances early in the season were criticised by some Arsenal supporters, but Wenger says his record signing has rediscovered his hunger for football during his three months out.

"I think it has been a frustrating start to the season for him because he hasn't contributed yet," Wenger said. "He had not a convincing start obviously, he only played six games and scored one goal against Aston Villa.

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"Mesut has the opportunity to come back and to contribute to the team - when you're a football player you want to play games.

"Today he looks hungry and is working extremely hard, pushing himself to the limit of what you can absorb physically to come back. He is ready. He is hungry.

"He came back from winning the World Cup at the end of August, even if I gave him the holiday they needed the hunger is artificial. You have to slowly get back and realise how much you miss it - I have had it with players before.

"He is an exceptional football player. He always gives you continuity in your game. He's a very creative player and ideally you want all your best players available."

Watch Arsenal v Stoke live on Sky Sports 1 on Sunday. Coverage begins at 12.30pm.

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