Mesut Ozil returns to first-team training following back problems
Subject to a report published by Sky Sports, Arsenal’s midfield metronome Mesut Ozil returned to first-team training on Friday after suffering back spasms that subsequently sidelined the German for the Gunners’ 5-1 trouncing of Fulham before the international break.
Many of Unai Emery’s fold are currently on international duty for the respective countries, however Ozil – who retired from international football before the 2018 World Cup – remained at London Colney to continue his rehabilitation regime.
Ozil’s absence against the Whites at Craven Cottage meant that the former Real Madrid playmaker ultimately missed his second Premier League encounter of the season.
The north-Londoners didn’t necessarily miss the 29-year-old during their resounding triumph by the Thames, although his reemergence will undoubtedly please Emery and the club’s avid fan base, as he’s unquestionably one of the set-up’s most influential catalysts in the middle of the park.
England U21 international Ainsley Maitland-Niles also returned to training following a minor fracture to his left fibula, which he sustained against Manchester City on the opening day of the domestic schedule in August.
