Mesut Ozil is a 'genius' who will fire Arsenal to their first league title in ten years, according to Sami Khedira

German pair were also team-mates at Real Madrid

Sami Khedira (left) and Mesut Ozil (right) in conversation during training with Germany in August

Sami Khedira has described Mesut Ozil as a “genius” who will inspire Arsenal to their first league title in ten years.

Germany midfielder Khedira, a close friend of Ozil from their time together at Real Madrid, has again linked up with Ozil on international duty and claims the playmaker’s influence makes the Gunners the “best team in England”.

“Arsenal had a strong team anyway, but Mesut makes them the best team in England,” he said.

“I am sure he can be the player that makes things happen for them and win them the championship. Mesut is a genius on the field, there is no other way to describe him.”

Arsenal may have dropped two points at West Brom on Sunday, but sit at the top of Premier League on goals scored heading into the international break. It was Ozil winning back the ball for the Gunners which started the move for Jack Wilshere’s equalising goal in the 1-1 draw at the Hawthorns.

Khedira, who was one of a number of Real players who voiced their displeasure at the sale of Ozil to Arsenal in January, admitted the transfer has affected moral in the dressing room.

“Of course, there was some disappointment among the players at Madrid because he is the best in his position in the world. But I understand his decision as a player and also as my friend. He is already playing amazing football for Arsenal and he hasn’t even got used to the Premier League yet.”

Khedira, who has interested Arsene Wenger, and is out of contract at the Bernabeu in 18 months, also claimed that the German presence now at the north London club will help the Gunners end their trophy drought.

“There is a real German influence [at Arsenal] now, with Per Metersacker, Lukas Podolski, Mesut and also younger players coming through. They are the sort of players Arsenal need if they are to win trophies.”