Mesut Ozil admits Arsenal’s ‘difficult spell’ has delayed his contract talks

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil has reiterated that he joined the club because of manager Arsene Wenger, but admits he is unwilling to discuss his future during the club’s current ‘difficult spell’.

Wenger has endured a considerable amount of criticism in recent weeks as Arsenal have suffered some hugely disappointing results but Ozil insisted that the Frenchman should be respected for his previous achievements.

Ozil joined Arsenal from Real Madrid in 2013, with Wenger a key factor behind his move to the North London club.

As reported by the Daily Express, Ozil said: “As players you can’t decide who manages the club.

“I’ve always said he [Wenger] was the most important factor in me coming here.

“He’s been here for 20 years, he’s given a lot to the club and I think he deserves respect for what he’s achieved.

“I think at the moment it would be wrong to think about.

“At the moment the team are having a difficult spell and at this stage I am not important and no other player is important.

“What is important is the club. We’ve got aims that we want to meet this season.

“So there is still lots to play for. We want to qualify desperately for the Champions League.

“So we will talk in the summer and we’ll clear things then. At the moment, all that is important is Arsenal and not me or any other player, it is just the club.”

There has been much speculation about the futures of both Wenger and Ozil, with the manager out of contract at the end of this season, while the midfielder’s current deal is up at the end of next campaign.

Arsenal, who were beaten 3-0 by Crystal Palace on Monday night, are in serious danger of missing out on a top four finish, although they could still secure some silverware this season in the form of the FA Cup.

Many Arsenal players appear devoid of confidence at present, including Ozil, who failed to create a single chance during the Gunners’ meek surrender at Selhurst Park.