Michael Owen has stood by his assessment that Raheem Sterling is a better player than Mesut Ozil.

The former Liverpool star caused a stir on social media when he suggested that England youngster Sterling has more ability than the Arsenal ace.

Before Arsenal's 4-1 win over the Reds on Saturday, Owen told BT Sport: "I would think so, they would find some way.

"He's better than Ozil. I think he's probably better than [Danny] Welbeck."

The comment caused plenty of debate on social networking sites but Owen was not about to rubbish his earlier claim.

"It seems my claim that Sterling is a better player than Ozil made some headlines today," Owen posted on his Sportlobster account.

"Is there a debate? Not even close."