Olivier Giroud has insisted Arsenal players have never doubted Mesut Ozil, and said the midfielder has shown his commitment to the club in recent weeks.
Ozil produced a brilliant performance to inspire Arsenal to a 5-0 win over Huddersfield on Wednesday, scoring once and creating two goals during a breathtaking four-minute spell. The Germany international, who faces an uncertain future at Emirates Stadium, also played a starring role in the 2-0 win against Tottenham this month.
There has been little sign Ozil will sign a new contract before it expires next summer, and his situation is being monitored closely by Manchester United and Barcelona.
Ozil has been the subject of criticism at times this season, but Giroud says his team-mates have never had any doubts about the
29-year-old’s ability. “Never,” said the France striker, who scored twice last night. “You cannot be at the top level all the time, but we never had any doubts about his quality.
“He knows when he has to pass or shoot, and when you are in a good position you always think he thinks ‘assist’ before scoring. He is our playmaker and is a key player.”
Ozil, along with fellow contract rebel Alexis Sanchez, is free to negotiate with overseas clubs from January 1, although Arsene Wenger said this week the pair will stay until the end of the season “unless something unbelievable happens”.
Asked if Ozil’s recent displays had shown his commitment to the club, Giroud said: “Yes, of course. He is a top player and we need him.”
Alexandre Lacazette will miss Saturday’s home clash against Manchester United after he injured his groin last night.
