Part of the ‘English DNA’ that seems to be widely welcomed by Premier League fans, is a player tracking back to regain possession. Seen by fans as a sign of commitment to the game and most importantly to the team, these defensive contributions seem to impress and win over fans with the same enthusiasm as when a piece of world-class skill is produced (possessing this trait has worked so well for former striker Wayne Rooney, he now plays regularly in midfield). This has been one of many reasons why fellow Arsenal team-mate Alexis Sanchez has been such a success with Arsenal fans. Not only does he have a superb range of skills coupled with blistering pace, he shows consistent determination to track back and regain possession.
In contrast to this, has been Özil’s apparent lack of tracking back, which seems to cause problems for Arsenal fans, who regularly brand him as lazy and disinterested. This is not helped through his nonchalant body language, which gives a distinct impression of somebody who isn’t particularly bothered when things aren’t going well. Özil quickly becomes the player to blame when Arsenal lose, as if him not tracking back is the sole reason for Arsenal conceding (see Mertesacker’s loss of form this season).
However, in last night’s game against Monaco, Özil’s display of determination and will to regain possession through tracking back and hassling his opponents, showed an added quality that will please Arsenal fans who have long questioned his passion for the team. His defensive duties and body language illustrated his resolve and frustration in attempting to overturn a near impossible score line of 3 away goals, and should have been rewarded with a goal – an excellent free kick that was tipped over the crossbar, and a late volley that skimmed past the post.
Yet, aside from last night’s excellent performance, it is important for fans (and pundits) to acknowledge Özil’s place in the team as a luxury player, and to appreciate his sheer attacking brilliance. Furthermore, to recognise that many top teams accommodate a luxury player, who will often not take part in tracking back, such as Messi for Barcelona, and Mata at Chelsea, (the latter who many believe was allowed to join Manchester United for this very reason). Özil’s intelligent passing is unrivalled in the number 10 position, and will only improve with more game time alongside Sanchez, Cazorla and the increasingly clinical Olivier Giroud. His 2015 stats since returning from injury of 3 goals and 4 assists show his importance to an Arsenal team that (with a injury-free run), could have an attacking team to expose any defence. Perhaps if Wenger will now focus on fine tuning Arsenal’s defence, fans will criticise Özil less, and instead appreciate him for his wonderful attacking qualities.
