Former Arsenal Keeper Jens Lehmann says Mesut Ozil Will Be Huge Success

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has said that while star Mesut Ozil was overpriced, the playmaker will eventually be a big success at the Emirates.

The midfielder, who signed for a club-record £42.5m from Real Madrid in the summer, has been criticised for his performance in his first season in the Premier League even though he started the campaign in superb form.

In an interview with talkSport Lehmann believes the 25-year-old, who was injured against Bayern Munich, will triumph at the Emirates, saying: "Mesut Ozil will be a big success at Arsenal.

"You have to remember that every player who has come from abroad needs to get used to the rhythm of the Premier League.

"You do not know how your body is going to react after the winter period. In no other league is it so hard to play throughout the whole season.

"You get a little break in Spain and Germany. It is his first season at Arsenal, but he is a fantastic player," Lehmann told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast show.

Ozil appears to be on the verge of a first-team return at Hull on 19 April, alongside Aaron Ramsey.

The Gunners have missed the services of their prized midfield duo, and with injuries hitting them at a crucial time in the title race they have taken only two points from a possible nine and trail Liverpool by seven points at the top.

The run of results mean that Arsenal have to keep an eye on the teams behind them in the race, with Everton closing in fast.