Rumours: Arsenal key shareholder, Alisher Usmanov, disappointed with Mesut Özil

Influential shareholder Alisher Usmanov has admitted that he is disappointed with club record signing Mesut Ozil’s recent displays, reports the Daily Star.

The £42 million summer signing failed to score a crucial spot kick during the North Londoners’ 2-0 Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich and has attracted widespread criticism for his performance.

The 25-year-old has now undeservedly been made a scapegoat by Gunners fans, but Usmanov believes the former Real Madrid star needs to start pulling his weight.

“What do I think about Ozil’s performance? My view – less than his capacity. Why was that? Maybe he was tired…” Usmanov declared.

It has been suggested the German is struggling for form and fitness due to the lack of a winter break, with Arsene Wenger reportedly set to rest him for Saturday’s fixture against Sunderland,

Meanwhile, Usmanov rued Arsenal’s bad fortune against the reigning European champions but hinted the board will be willing to invest in the squad further, if Wenger believes it is necessary.

“Of course I am disappointed (by the Bayern defeat) but this really was the best team in the world against us. Unfortunately we did not have luck. What can you do when you have one man less? It’s a difficulty in football.

“Does this team need further investment in order to win titles? This is for my lovely friend Mr Wenger to decide. It’s his decision,” he declared.

With their hopes of European glory hanging by a thread, Arsenal will need to secure all three points against Gus Poyet’s side to stay within touching distance of league leaders Chelsea and restore their dented confidence.