Alex Iwobi has called on Arsenal boss Unai Emery to play “world class” Mesut Ozil more often because his presence influenced the win over BATE Borisov.
The Gunners thumped their Europa League last-32 opposition 3-0 on Thursday to make up for their 1-0 defeat by the Belarussian minnows in the first leg.
Ozil was left out of the travelling squad for the first leg but was returned to the starting XI at the Emirates and performed well in the dominating display.
After the match Iwobi hailed his team-mate’s influence. “We know what Mesut is like because we see him in training every day,” he said.
(Image: X01222)
“He’s world class. We scored three goals as a result of him playing. I know if I make a run he has the vision to find me. Hopefully he can keep on playing.”
Ozil missed his 100th match for Arsenal in Belarus after being absent for games this season due to illness, a back spasm and a knee injury.
(Image: AFP/Getty Images)
Ahead of the last-32 clash Emery said the German’s future is in his own hands and called on Ozil to make the most of his next opportunity.
He then gave the World Cup winner a chance to shine on Thursday, and was pleased with Ozil’s performance against BATE Borisov.
(Image: WILL OLIVER/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)
“Well. I said to him carry on, be available like today, like the last two weeks,” revealed Emery, when asked what he said to Ozil after the game.
“Today I am happy, it was like what we want from him.”
