Mesut Ozil has been put on a weight-training programme as he struggles to fully adapt to the toughness of the Barclays Premier League.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger launched a staunch defence of his club-record £42million signing on Tuesday following criticism of recent displays — Ozil has not scored in his last nine matches and assisted just one goal.  

And while the Germany midfielder’s ability remains clear, Wenger admits Ozil has found it hard to come to terms with the physical approach here. 

‘He thinks it’s more physical here (in England) for sure and he is working on his body strength to deal with it,’ said Wenger. 

‘He works on strengthening his body in the gym. Mesut feels the pressure, of course. He knows a lot is expected when you are a big transfer. 

'But he should not worry about that — just play, enjoy it and give his best — that’s the best way to deal with it. But on the other hand, you must say he doesn’t come from a small club.

Out of sorts: Ozil was hauled off during's Saturday's thrashing at Liverpool

+6

Slow start: Ozil has failed to live up to his £42million price tag

‘He comes from Real Madrid where the pressure is always huge — so he’s used to it. He needs understanding because he always wants to do well. He cares. He’s not a guy who doesn’t care.

‘His style can sometimes look like that he doesn’t care but he’s really the opposite character.’ 

Ozil could face another physical battle on Wednesday night when Manchester United visit the Emirates Stadium. 

Rough and tumble: Ozil is hitting the gym to help deal with the physicality of English football

But, while Wenger wants his talented playmaker to bulk up, he does not want Ozil to ditch his attacking principles. 

Wenger added: ‘What else does he need to improve? His goalscoring. You want the guy who plays behind the striker to score some goals and sometimes he is too obsessed with making the perfect pass when he could take a shot at goal.

‘He needs to practise on it and we need to convince him by showing him situations where he can shoot more. The problem at the moment is that we are not practising much.

 

Rare sight: Ozil hasn't had much reason to celebrate after a disappointing start to his Arsenal career

‘The problem today is that you cannot practise any more. During the season, we are playing every three days, and afterwards they go to the World Cup.

‘When they come back they have just one week before they are playing again. You can never improve on the training pitch.’