The Numbers Behind Mesut Ozil's Masterclass Against Leicester Are Staggeringly Good

I've heard it all before. 'Mesut Ozil isn't consistent enough, Mesut Ozil doesn't turn up in big games, Mesut Ozil is not the player he once was.'

And all of those statements have a hint of truth about them, but Arsenal's number ten proved his doubters wrong against Leicester last night, producing one of his best performances for Arsenal since joining the club in 2013.

The 30-year-old became the highest scoring German player in Premier League history against the Foxes, as well as recording the highest passing accuracy of anybody on the pitch.

Ozil, who was surprisingly named captain for the 3-1 win, also notched the most chances during his time on the pitch, creating four opportunities for the likes of Alexandre Lacazette, Alex Iwobi and Pierre Emerick Aubameyang.

It was an absolute masterclass from Ozil, who's contribution of a dummy, assist and backheel for Aubameyang's second goal of the game left fans in awe.

Even the man himself complimented Arsenal's performance as 'sexy football' shortly after the full-time whistle, a statement that shows great confidence in Unai Emery's current reign.

In the past, the German's application and desire has regularly come under criticism and plenty of Arsenal supporters have criticised his sometimes 'lazy' approach to games.

If only he could produce these types of performances week in, week out.

Can Arsenal finally challenge for the Premier League once more under the guidance of Unai Emery?

If we're judging that question on the club's first nine games then it could be a very close race come the end of the season.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Topics: Football News, Leicester City, Football, Mesut Ozil, Premier League, Arsenal

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare is a writer at SPORTbible. He's interviewed some of the biggest names in sport, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pele, Carles Puyol and Tim Henman. He dabbles in all things sport but football is his biggest passion. He was once hit in the head by a wayward strike from Nicky Butt and lived to tell the tale.

@jackkenmare_