Keown slates Ozil after Arsenal’s Europa League defeat

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown launched a scathing attack on Mesut Ozil after the German’s dismal performance in the Europa League semi-final defeat.

Ozil made no impact at all for Arsenal in the second leg against Atletico Madrid and continues to attract criticism for his performances.

And, speaking as a pundit on BT Sport, Keown pulled no punches in his assessment of Ozil’s showing – and predicted he will not play again this season.

“I bet he doesn’t play again this season,” Keown said.

“He will have some emotional breakdown and won’t be able to play at the weekend.

“I don’t know how many illnesses he has had this season but the fella is not kidding me. That is not a proper performance. He isn’t giving everything and there is a lot more under the bonnet.

“He wasn’t fit to wear the shirt for me tonight and I have seen this a lot this season and it needs to be said.

“He needs to be dug out because we expect better from him. He is a World Cup winner and these are crocodile tears I am seeing from him and he is not conning me.”

Keown also suggested that outgoing Gunners boss Arsene Wenger should consider also issuing a public criticism.

The ex-England defender said: “I have had my say on it and I don’t feel he is giving enough for Arsenal Football Club.

“Maybe Arsene Wenger should come out and say more about some of these players that should have performed for him and he is one who hasn’t.”