Wenger urges Ozil to commit

Arsene Wenger believes Mesut Ozil can become an Arsenal legend if the German midfielder commits his long-term future to the club. 

Wenger feels that Ozil could emulate Dennis Bergkamp in grabbing a place in Gunners folklore but only if he is willing stay in north London for an extended period of time.

Ozil netted a sumptuous winner against Ludogorets in midweek, his coolness and imagination on the ball drawing comparisons with Bergkamp in the aftermath.

To become a legend at the club you need to stay for a long time.

Arsene Wenger

Wenger was happy to weigh-in on the comparisons with his former playmaker, but the Frenchman says Ozil can only elevate himself to that sort of status by staying at the club beyond his current deal – which expires next year.

Ahead of Sunday’s North London derby against Tottenham at the Emirates, Wenger was asked whether Ozil could eventually match Bergkamp’s status in Arsenal’s history, he said: “I think so, I think if he commits.

“Dennis Bergkamp committed for a long period, played until he was 38. I wish we have ten more years of Ozil. To become a legend at the club you need to stay for a long time.

“I understand that being a legend like Dennis Bergkamp, if you stay two years you would not be a legend.”

Ozil is 9/1 to score the opening goal for Arsenal in the derby game against Spurs.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side are unbeaten in the league this season but they trail Arsenal by three points. The home side are 19/20 to win, with Tottenham 16/5 and the draw 13/5.

Both Ozil and Alexis Sanchez have been in fine recent form for Arsenal and Wenger cites a stronger focus from the maturing Chilean as a key factor in his improved form.

“I believe he is at an age where he is more mature,” Wenger said. “He is 28. The difference today is he focuses more on efficiency. When he arrived here he was more a player to play, focused on playing. Today efficiency is more in his mind.”

source: bet365.com