Albion's German ace Pascal Gross has sprung to the defence of fellow countryman Mesut Ozil.

The pair clash at the Amex on Boxing Day with Ozil's future under Arsenal boss Unai Emery the subject of intense speculation.

Ozil (below) has been linked with a move away from the Emirates in January.

The former World Cup winner and Real Madrid playmaker has struggled to command a regular place under Spaniard Emery, starting fewer than half of Arsenal's matches this season.

Gross believes Ozil's demeanour is misunderstood.

Gross told The Argus: "He is a fantastic player, a fantastic technician.

"People talk about his body language. It's not like me. If you are not having the best day or my team, you try everything until the end. That's my character.

"I think he also does that but the body language sometimes - you don't have the feeling that he is.

"That has always been the thinking in his life people moan about. But the football, the technical stuff, you don't have to say anything, it's brilliant.

"Every human is different. He's had a great career with his clubs and the national team. He has done everything right for himself and his career. Nobody's perfect."

Gross set up the first half goals for Lewis Dunk and Glenn Murray when Albion beat Arsenal 2-1 at the Amex last season.