Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

News

HomeNewsArsenalEnglish Premier League

Garth Crooks ‘baffled’ by Arsenal decision over Mesut Ozil

Lee Clarke

Tue 22 December 2020 9:15, UK

Garth Crooks has told that Arsenal should consider handing Mesut Ozil a place in the squad, admitting he is baffled by the whole situation.

The German World Cup-winning playmaker wasn’t included in Mikel Arteta’s 25-man squad for either the Premier League or Europa League.

Meanwhile, Arsenal have struggled to find the way to goal, scoring just 12 goals in 14 matches in the top-flight.

Crooks believes the decision to leave him out must not be questioned and has backed him for a return to the fold.

“Every once in a while, something happens in football that not only baffles you but creates confusion and conspiracy. The refusal by Arsenal to play Mesut Ozil is bewildering – not just because they’re paying him a fortune but also because this is the worst start to a season in over 40 years for the Gunners.

“When Ozil hasn’t been at his best, he was still good enough for Arsenal and the thought of Ozil being incapable of making the squad is absurd.

“Teammate Bernd Leno stated recently that the midfielder has been a model professional throughout this difficult time.

“I have to question the judgement of Arteta leaving Ozil out. Such a decision makes no sense.”

TBR View – Ozil decision looking pretty foolish

Supporters can say what they want about the 32-year-old but Arsenal could hardly be any worse off had they given him a chance this season.

The Gunners have struggled desperately for a creative spark this season and Ozil would have undoubtedly helped in that sense.

In 254 appearances for Arsenal, he has scored 44 goals and registered 77 assists for the club since arriving for in 2013.

It’ll be interesting to see whether Ozil earns a reprieve during January or whether the Gunners will wash their hands of him.

Crooks is right though, ousting the 92-cap star from the squad makes absolutely no sense at all.