Mesut Ozil is keen for Per Mertesacker to return to fitness, claiming that his fellow German is a role model at Arsenal.

The BFG is currently sidelined after badly injuring his knee before the season started. As the newly crowded captain, as well as boyhood Gooner, it must be immensely hard watching the team you love from the sidelines. What’s probably harder is that, although he wants us to do well, he probably knows that with the addition of compatriot Shkodran Mustafi, his days in north London are numbered.

Speaking to Arsenal Player, Ozil revealed how much he looks up to the centreback… and not just literally.

“Off the pitch, he watches the games and comes into the dressing room,” he revealed.

“He’s just a role model and we’re pleased to have him here. I want him to get fit again and back on the pitch as quickly as possible.”

It’s fantastic to see the playmaker supporting his teammate, although Per getting back on the pitch is much easier said than done considering how well Laurent Koscielny and Mustafi are gelling.

It’ll be a shame for Mesut if Per does leave. I’m not sure he’s fully over the death of Flam-zil yet.