Ozil gets Bergkamp comparison even as he closes in on Henry's record

December 29, 2015 12:10 IST

Arsenal's Mesut Ozil celebrates scoring his team's second goal against Bournemouth during their Barclays English Premier League match at Emirates Stadium in London on Monday

IMAGE: Arsenal's Mesut Ozil celebrates scoring his team's second goal against Bournemouth during their Barclays English Premier League match at Emirates Stadium in London on Monday. Photograph: Ian Walton/Getty Images

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has hailed the contribution of Germany midfielder Mesut Ozil, comparing him to former Arsenal great Dennis Bergkamp.

Ozil created the opening goal for defender Gabriel and scored the second, continuing an impressive season during which he could create a record for assists.

He has laid on 16 goals and is closing in on the record of 20 set by former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry in 2002-03.

"Bergkamp was more of a goal-scorer and Mesut was more of an assists [player] but now he becomes more of a goal-scorer. They are really comparable," Wenger said.

"I have seen a few good games from Ozil but what is important is that he convinces everybody that he is not only a talented player but a player that is always willing to work for the team and work hard.

"He has added scoring goals to his assists and overall he is a complete player."

Arsenal beat Bournemouth 2-0, on Monday, are one point clear, but Leicester City can return to the top of the table by beating fourth-placed Manchester City at the King Power Stadium on Tuesday.

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