Ozil told what to do to return into favor at Arsenal

Arsenal technical director Edu has urged out-of-favor Mesut Ozil to show commitment off the field to force his way back into the team.

Ozil has become a fringe player at Arsenal since Mikel Arteta took over the reins from Unai Emery last season.

Often criticized for the lack of attitude and lackadaisical approach in training, the 31-year-old has become somewhat a scapegoat at the Emirates.

Yet, Ozil remains Arsenal’s top-earner and is determined to see out those terms. With his current contract running out next summer, his status in north London is the elephant in the room.

However, Edu has offered the German playmaker a clean slate going into the final year of his deal at the club.

“Here, we are talking, of course, about performance,” he told Goal.

“Players with performance in training, the game, they are going to have opportunities because Mikel already showed that. It is for everyone.

“We know how important everybody is. I know how important and how big the player is when you mention Mesut, but in the end, we are talking about performance here.

“If he is performing well, people are performing well, who is the best in training, the best in the game, I’m sure Mikel is going to select them to be in the squads to play games or to be on the bench.”

Ozil’s last competitive appearance for Arsenal dates back to March 7. The ex-Real Madrid star has since either spent his time on the bench or out of Arteta’s matchday squad.

But, Edu’s words show the club still have the confidence in the illustrious playmaker to shine one last time.

In turn, Ozil returned in contention for a place in the Gunners’ starting line-up during the off-season.