x-Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack believes that Mesut Ozil currently looks “lost” in the Arsenal team.
The German playmaker has come in for intense criticism in recent weeks following a series of underwhelming displays.
As a £42.5m club record signing much was expected of the former Madrid, but he has seen his commitment and fitness intensely questioned recently amid a run of difficult fixtures.
Ozil again gave his critics ammo last night as he stepped up to take an early penalty against Bayern Munich.
Despite his obvious quality, the playmaker produced a tame effort that was saved, and Arsenal went on to lose 2-0.
After the match Ballack questioned whether or not his compatriot feels at home at the Emirates Stadium.
“He looks a bit lost in this team,” Ballack told the Daily Star.
“When he came here there was so much expectation with the quality he has.
“The first games he looked good, played well and was comfortable.
“With his quality he should be untouchable and bring out so much in the team. But it looks like he has not the acceptance of the team.
Ballack then went on to criticise Ozil’s penalty technique, and believes that the way he approached the opportunity suggested that he is currently low on self-belief.
“Ozil did not look confident – he walked to the ball slowly, so maybe there is someone who wants it more, but there wasn’t,” he added.
“He has the ability to score from 12 yards, it’s not a big deal but there was just no confidence.”
