Arsenal FC Injury Update: Mesut Ozil To Make Return Against Aston Villa
Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil will finally be available for selection on Sunday against Aston Villa after being sidelined for more than three months, according to Arsene Wenger.
The 26-year-old Germany international partially tore a knee ligament in his left knee in October, halting his playing momentum after just winning the World Cup last summer with his national side.
"I think it has been a frustrating start to the season for him because he hasn't contributed yet," said the French boss.
"He had not a convincing start obviously; he only played six games and scored one goal against Aston Villa."
"Mesut has the opportunity to come back and to contribute to the team - when you're a football player you want to play games."
Instead of taking the setback as a negative, Wenger sees it as a source of motivation for the former Real Madrid man, with the latter's vigour and passion questioned due to a perceived lack of effort before suffering the said injury.
"Today he looks hungry and is working extremely hard, pushing himself to the limit of what you can absorb physically to come back. He is ready. He is hungry," he continued.
"He came back from winning the World Cup at the end of August, even if I gave him the holiday they needed the hunger is artificial. You have to slowly get back and realise how much you miss it - I have had it with players before."
"He is an exceptional football player. He always gives you continuity in your game. He's a very creative player and ideally you want all your best players available."
To get the latest updates, follow IBTimes Sport on Twitter.
To contact author of this article, email m.eubank@ibtimes.com.au.