adminLONDON. — Mesut Ozil has delivered a damning assessment of Arsenal’s season by admitting Arsene Wenger’s side have messed up in their English Premier League soccer title challenge.
Wenger’s team go into their game with Watford at the Emirates today 11 points adrift of Leicester with a game in hand on the leaders.
The chances of them closing that gap and overhauling second placed Tottenham as well, are slim, adding to Arsenal’s sense of regret after being regarded as favourites to be champions for long periods in the campaign.
Ozil believes the Gunners are not out of the title race, but his claim the club should have challenged more strongly reflects the views of many of the club’s supporters, some of whom have voiced their frustration at Wenger’s management in recent weeks.
“Looking at our season so far, we have to be honest and admit that we s*****d up ourselves,” Ozil said.
“We did not play to our potential in the games against the so-called smaller teams. You immediately get punished for that in the Premier League.
“But we still have a chance of winning the title. We have to hope Leicester and Tottenham slip up and then make the most of it.”
Ozil also admits he would like to pull off an unlikely triumph to reward his manager.
“I would be delighted for Wenger if we win the title. He played a major role in my decision to join Arsenal. He was desperate to sign me,” he added.
“Everybody knows he is an extraordinary manager.
“He is always hungry for success, has a lot of experience and always takes his time for the players. He helps players develop.” — AFP.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter