Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger has moved Mesut Özil back into his favoured position following a bad experiment at the beginning of last season, and it is working wonders.

The German playmaker was asked to play from the left wing for a while, and it took a bit of a toll on his performances.

Since moving back into his favoured number 10 role, the German has shone, creating more chances than anyone else in the Premier League in 2015. Moving Özil back into the middle has worked a treat, and the German has been telling Arsenal Player about his special relationship with the manager.

“He knows exactly how I tick and I know exactly what he thinks of me,” said the midfielder. “I just want to help the team as much as possible on the pitch – that’s my target.

“Of course sometimes things work better than at other times, that’s football, but the manager believes in me and that means a lot to me.”

No matter what criticism Özil may receive from the media or the stands, Wenger has unwavering belief in his talent.

“He has experience and in past years you’ve seen him develop some top players. I get on really well with him and he gives me his trust. I’m thankful to him for that and to be praised by a coach like him means a lot.

“I thank him for that through good performances on the pitch.”

That’s the best way to answer critics, and Özil does so constantly. The German has been in brilliant form despite Arsenal’s stuttering start to the season, and his pass for the opening goal in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Stoke City was nothing short of sublime.

Keep doing your thing, Mesut.