Arsenal supporters were delighted with the impact of German midfielder Mesut Ozil, who stood out during Thursday’s Europa League round of 16 first-leg tie versus AC Milan.
The 29-year-old has received plenty of criticism for his performances since putting put pen-to-paper on a three-year contract during the backend of January.
However, he managed to standout when required as he produced a couple of key assists during the Gunners’ 2-0 triumph over Milan at the San Siro.
Ozil lobbed the ball to Mkhitaryan, who opened the scoring in the 15th minute of clash, and he managed to make the difference once more before the break with a delightful pass for Aaron Ramsey, who bagged the second goal on the night.
The German was less of an influence during the second period, where the Gunners were more keen to hold onto the result, but the fans were undoubtedly delighted with the impact from the World Cup winner.
As a result of his assists, Ozil has contributed towards 100 goals for the north London club, 37 of which he has managed to score by his own.
Mesut Ozil is a special special footballer ππΌ
— James Maddison (@Madders10) March 8, 2018
Ozil's contribution to both those goals can't be underestimated. He and Mkhitaryan both stepping up tonight. They needed to.
— Mattias KarΓ©n (@MattiasKaren) March 8, 2018
When Ozil is seemingly strolling about is when he does his study of where the holes in the opposition are. The precision, timing and weight of pass for his two assists tonight were everything Ozil.
— Dr. Mohammed Amali π³π¬ (@MoAmali) March 8, 2018
That ball from Ozil was first class. Great finish from Mkhitaryan too.
— Chris Wheatley (@ChrisWheatley) March 8, 2018
'Not a big game player' Ozil has now got two goals and four assists in Arsenal's last six European games away from home.
— James Benge (@jamesbenge) March 8, 2018
Ozil could find my hairline with his vision πππ
— Lord EDWIN the 2nd (@EdwinJunior419) March 8, 2018
https://twitter.com/ani_nomso/status/971821632485560320
The result sees the Gunners in a comfortable position ahead of the return leg next week, and they will fancy their chances of securing another triumph over the Rossoneri, who appeared to lack the cutting edge in the final third.
Arsenal’s attention will shift to the Premier League for the weekend where they have a game against Javi Gracia’s Watford.
The Hornets have surprised the Gunners with a couple of victories in recent seasons, but Arsene Wenger will want to keep the confidence up with another strong performance prior to Milan’s arrival.