Arsenal Blow As Ozil Misses Training & Mertesacker Ruled Out Of Sunderland Trip

Arsenal have been dealt a double injury blow ahead of Saturday’s clash with Sunderland with Mesut Ozil and Per Mertesacker both struck down with illness, according to BBC journalist David Ornstein.

German playmaker Ozil made a record £42.5m move to the Emirates on transfer deadline day and was presented to the media on Thursday alongside boss Arsene Wenger.

The Frenchman confirmed the 24-year-old would feature at the Stadium of Light but it seems his participation is now in doubt with BBC journalist David Ornstein claiming that the player missed training on Friday through illness and although he’s travelled with the squad this afternoon, the news makes his a major doubt to start tomorrow.

There is worse news regarding Mertesacker with the centre-back staying back in London due to illness. The giant Germans absence will be a huge blow as he’s struck up an impressive partnership with Laurent Koscielny at the back in recent months.

Here’s what Ornstein said on his official Twitter account:

Ozil missed training (illness) but travels to Sunderland, Mertesacker also ill & does not travel, Vermaelen travels #bbcsportsday #afc #safc

— David Ornstein (@bbcsport_david) September 13, 2013

With Tomas Rosicky out with a hamstring injury and Ozil likely to start from the bench, it leaves Wenger will few options left in attack. It’s likely that Jack Wilshere will move into the No.10 role with Mathieu Flamini coming in alongside Aaron Ramsey in midfield.

Mertesacker’s absence does however open the door for forgotten captain Thomas Vermaelen to make an early return to the side. The Belgian has been on the sidelines through injury but is back in training and has made the trip with the rest of the squad to Sunderland today.

What do you make of the news regarding Ozil and Mertesacker? Share your views below.