The Arsenal centre-back praises his Germany international team-mate and believes that he has made "good progress" following his move from Real Madrid in the summer

The Arsenal centre-back praises his Germany international team-mate and believes that he has made "good progress" following his move from Real Madrid in the summer

Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker has backed team-mate Mesut Ozil to start banging in the goals soon, believing that he has made "good progress" since his summer arrival from Real Madrid.

Ozil became the Gunners' record purchase following his £40 million switch to the Emirates Stadium and has played a significant role in his side's terrific start to the season that sees them sitting at the top of the Premier League table.

Despite claiming six assists since September, the midfielder has hit the net just three times in 16 appearances and missed a penalty in Tuesday's Champions League victory over Marseille but Mertesacker is convinced that the goals will soon flow for his international compatriot.

"He has made good progress," the centre-back told the club's official website. "He is in good form and you can see that. Especially against Marseille he was always a threat and he never gave up after the penalty that he missed.

"We are very delighted with him, especially in the transition from defence to offence. He is the one who always goes deep all of the time.

"He gets himself into good positions so the goals will come, for sure. He moves well between the lines so it is always difficult to defend against him. When the centre back comes out with him, there is always space for others to move into.

"He helps us create more chances. We are playing well as a team and we should continue that in the Champions League and the Premier League."