Ozil ‘not sharp enough’

MIKEL ARTETA called axed midfielder Mesut Ozil to spell out exactly why he was dropped from Arsenal’s squad to face Manchester City. The World Cup winner was left out for the 3-0 loss at City on Wednesday night, with Arteta insisting his decision was based on ‘tactical reasons’. The Gunners boss did not feel Ozil was sharp enough to be included and made it clear he expected more in training. Arteta emphasised that he views Ozil as an important part of his plans. But his long-term future is increasingly uncertain. At 31, Ozil is entering the final 12 months of a £350,000-aweek deal — but Arsenal will actively seek to offload him before next season to get his salary off the wage bill. Knowing he is unlikely to get an £18million-a-year deal anywhere else, Arsenal fear Ozil will see out his contract before leaving for free in 2021. The Gunners would be open to loaning out Ozil if a club would pay a significant chunk of his wages.

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