Grafter Mesut’s not taking the Mik any more for Gunners

HE IS emerging as the symbol of the Mikel Arteta revolution.

Mesut Ozil’s performance in Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Manchester United was among the midfielder’s best for 18 months.

The former Germany star played the entire 90 minutes and completed 42 of his 49 attempted passes, seven of which were key passes in the final third.

Ozil also won possession back from United 10 times – his most in a league game for three years and more than any other player on the pitch. All that a day after Radio 5 Live pundit John Collins dismissed the 31-year-old as “lazy” and a liability.

Ozil’s display appeared to vindicate Arteta’s belief that he could be the man around whom the new Arsenal boss builds his team. It also comes with striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang revealing the club’s second clean sheet in four games – after none in their previous 14 – had come as a result of Arteta setting out his very specific stall. “As soon as he got here, he put things on the table,” said Aubameyang. “He made it clear what he expected from us and that it was non-negotiable. “Everyone has got to work. Everyone wanted to make an effort because we have pride there too.” Ex- Arsenal defender Lee Dixon said: “He was back to the Mesut that we all want to see. “I’ve been the most critical of Ozil as my game was built on hard work. He’s doing the same tricks, but if it doesn’t work there’s protection now.” Wednesday was Arsenal’s first league win against a team currently in the top half of the table.