Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil has defended his style of play.

The German has faced a consistent stream of criticism since his arrival in England in 2013 for his languid attitude when out of possession.

“I'm not the type of player to chase after the ball the whole time, everyone knows that," Ozil told Sport Bild. “My potential lies far more on the offensive side.

“I'm supposed to be dangerous, create chances, score goals. When I don't get the ball, that's difficult."

This season has proven to be a wasted one for Ozil in spite of a bright start to the campaign.

“When it isn't going well overall it is twice as hard for a creative player. Take the games against Bayern, for instance."