Former Manchester United and Chelsea star Ray Wilkins insists Mesut Ozil does not deserve to be given the No.10 shirt at Arsenal, amid reports he wants the number as part of his agreement to stay at the club.

The German midfielder has less than one year remaining on his current Arsenal deal, and is free to open talks with any potential suitors in January. However, with recent reports claiming he is likely to stay if he is offered the No.10 shirt, perhaps there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Wilkins however, believes the 29-year-old’s ability does not merit him being given the number ahead of Jack Wilshere, saying the Germany international is not a ‘great’ player.

“He is not a great player so why should he wear 10?” Wilkins said on talkSPORT. “Why should he nick that off Jack? I think the word ‘great’ is used far too often.

“I don’t think he has ever been a great player.

“You see him in the Premier League week in week out, he’s a good player, he’s a very good player.

“He’s been a fantastic player. I don’t think he is a great player.”

It would be a great shame to see Ozil leave Arsenal, and despite Wilkins’ comments it has to be said that Ozil is an exceptional player – one that at times can be absolutely unplayable.

Fresh reports this morning claim that Manchester United are ready to bid £30m for Ozil’s services in January, an offer the club is unlikely to refuse.