The Gunners star has vowed to carry on making his personal mark in English football, expressing a wish on his part to become an iconic creative influence
Mesut Ozil is aware of comparisons to Arsenal legend Dennis Bergkamp but insists he is determined to protected legend status in his personal right at Emirates Stadium.
As a creative influence who can make the game look simple at times, the German playmaker falls into the same talent bracket as the iconic Dutchman.
Bergkamp starred in north London for 9 years between 1995 and 2006, scoring 120 goals and winning 3 Premier League titles.
Ozil, who has seen as much criticism during his time in England as he has praise, has some way to go before he can maintain to enjoy a similar standing at Arsenal, but the 29-year-old is out to show his worth.
He told the club’s official website: “The fans have backed me ever since I arrived 5 years ago and because of that, I have been capable to play in my preferred style.
“I always desire to control the game, give assists and help my team. It was like that with me from the begin In my position you have many possibilities playing forward. You can order the balls, make telling passes or score yourself.
“I’ve been told several times over the years that this is how Bergkamp played. Of course that makes me proud and it is an honor to be compared with him. Bergkamp is a living legend at Arsenal and he was an wonderful football player.
“But I do not want to compare myself with anyone. I have my personal style and I’ve had it since I was a kid. I am proud of these comparisons, but I am Mesut Ozil and I’m not finished yet.”
Ozil enjoyed a welcome return to form in his most recent outing - his 200th for Arsenal - with a positive response offered to Unai Emery’s demands for him to give more during a trip to Newcastle.
An effort which proved to be the match winner at St James’ Park was the World Cup winner’s first Premier League strike of 2018, but he claims to take more delight from setting up others than he does hitting the net himself.
He added: “mainly kids only enjoy scoring goals but ever since I was young, I’ve always loved to give assists.
“Why? It’s easy really. Through giving an assist, your friend can score and you assist your team. Whenever I receive the ball, I always think offensively so I can pick out chances to score a goal or assist someone. That’s why it’s normal for me to always get the ball and play it forwards.
“In my opinion, a creative player should always have fun on the pitch and should faith their playing style in order to help the team. I’ve been playing this way my whole life, which is why I still enjoy giving my team-mates assists to this day.”
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