Robert Pires says that Mesut Ozil is one of the best players he has ever seen.

Ozil has been in fine form since returning from a three-month spell on the sidelines, claiming four goals and four assists in 15 appearances for Arsenal.

The World Cup winner curled in an inch-perfect free-kick against Liverpool on Saturday and Pires believes he deserves praise for another impressive performance.

Read the latest edition Read more from Robert in the new issue of the Arsenal Magazine, out next week Click here to subscribe

“For me, the man of the match was Mesut Ozil,” the former Gunner told the Arsenal Magazine. “And I am so glad that he proved his critics wrong.

“Too many people have criticised him this season and overall since he arrived at Arsenal. I train with him regularly and I can tell you that he is one of the best players I have seen.

“He loves this club and cares a lot about it. He wants to win trophies here and wants to make the fans happy, like he did against Liverpool. First, there was his wonderful pass for Aaron on the first goal. Then he scored that wonderful free-kick for the second goal.

“Again, I am not sure Mignolet can do much better because the strike is so clinical and goes out before coming back in. But Mesut also worked hard for the team, he defended, he was precious on the ball and he was simply instrumental.

“You can see that his understanding with Aaron, Santi, Alexis or Olivier is perfect. I love seeing Mesut, Aaron and Olivier exchanging those short passes.