Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has questioned why Mesut Ozil has been snubbed by manager Unai Emery this season, following his display against Liverpool on Wednesday night.

The German made only his third appearance of the campaign in the Carabao Cup defeat, but he put in a top drawer performance, leaving Smith to ask why he isn’t used more regularly:

“Then there is Mesut Ozil. Sheer class against Liverpool, he must surely play some part tomorrow and also going forward. It is madness to ostracise the German when he can provide so much imagination.”

Emery’s handling of Ozil has been debated by pundits and fans, with many perplexed by his decision to omit him from matchday squads despite his undoubted quality.

Some have speculated that his poor work rate is preventing the Gunners boss from starting him in matches, but even then, it doesn’t explain why he hasn’t been named on the bench more often.

Following his excellent display midweek, many are now expecting Ozil to feature when Arsenal face Wolves at the Emirates tomorrow afternoon. It will be interesting to see if Emery heeds the call for his inclusion.