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Should he start ahead of Ozil more often as Arsenal legend suggests?

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Arsenal icon Thierry Henry believes Arsene Wenger should use Alex Iwobi over Mesut Ozil in the number ten role more often.

Wenger was without the services of the German international for the 2-0 win over Crystal Palace over the weekend and opted to play Iwobi in the role instead. The Nigerian fared well in his first start playing in the central role, having played mostly out wide for the Gunners since his introduction into the first-team, and Henry believes the youngster showed enough quality to be better than Ozil behind the striker:

‘Iwobi is better off in the middle for Arsenal when they come up against teams who are defensively minded like we saw against Crystal Palace.

‘Wenger must have seen it, and hopefully he will be picked ahead of Ozil in such games.

‘He moves the ball quicker and faster leaving opposition defenders in their wake. He belongs to the middle.’

So, should Wenger utilize Iwobi more often through the middle ahead of Ozil? It’s certainly something the Frenchman should consider.

Ozil has come under a lot of stick in recent weeks for his lack of effort, but many would not argue the fact that Wenger doesn’t have a good enough alternative for the German in his position. However, the Frenchman may have found one in Iwobi. The youngster has the speed and movement to excel in this position, but does not offer more creativity than Ozil.

Perhaps Wenger should try out Iwobi in the central position against the lesser sides of the Premier League and when Ozil has dipped in form. It’s a good problem for Wenger to have and it should keep Ozil on his toes a bit more.

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