Ozil would rediscover his best form if played in behind Lacazette and Aubameyang

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Unai Emery has done some fantastic work with Arsenal since taking over from Arsene Wenger but the festive period – especially the 5-1 defeat to Liverpool – has highlighted the size of the task still facing him.

The Gunners’ defence is a lingering issue, but there are certain attacking individuals that he must get more from also.

Alexandre Lacazette is a fan favourite, but is not currently trusted to start games on a regular basis, while Mesut Ozil’s struggles have been so bad that a January move had been mooted as a possibility.

But ESPN report that Ozil has rejected the prospect of a loan away from the Emirates this month and is determined to fight to win his place back.

Which begs the question; how does Emery get the best out of Ozil? His shift towards a three-man defensive system may provide the answer.

A 3-4-1-2 system with Ozil as the number ten, with Lacazette paired with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in attack would give the German two dynamic passing options at all times, as well as creating the space for him to operate in.

With a back five and two sitting midfielders behind him, Ozil’s languid style need not impact on Arsenal’s defensive work, and it makes more sense to try and get him back to form than persisting with Aaron Ramsey, who looks set to leave in the summer.