by Lewis Ambrose

Twelve months ago Mesut Özil was a world champion, but returned to Arsenal to start in season in disappointing fashion.

The German has frequently spoken about his desire to play in the ‘number 10’ role and he flourished when moved back inside following a serious knee injury. Ahead of the new season he is expecting big things of the Arsenal squad, and feels trusted in his favoured role once again.

“I am super happy with the number 10 position, and will also confirm that trust,” Özil said after Arsenal won the Emirates Cup. The playmaker was the only Arsenal player to start in both games over the weekend and looked in top form as he dismantled Lyon on Saturday.

Now he is expecting the team to build on last season and mount a challenge for the Premier League title.

“The team spirit in our squad is 100% right,” declared the 26 year-old. “Our third place finish last season and the FA Cup victory were no coincidence.”

“For my taste we are better than last season, and I think this year we trust ourselves to improve a little more.”

Özil will be key to any success Arsenal have this season; the Gunners need the playmaker to remain fit throughout the campaign to stand the best chance of winning something.

As long as Mesut Özil is available Arsenal look a better team. We are definitely in better shape than a year ago and, with players like Özil, there’s every reason to hope for a successful season.