Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil hoping to add goals to his game

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil has admitted that he would like to score more goals this season although he insists he will put his team-mates first.

The Germany international has only scored nine goals in 50 appearances for the Gunners since he moved to the Emirates two years ago for a club record fee of £42.5million.

Ozil has picked up 17 assists during his time in north London but has been heavily criticised in recent weeks for some of his performances.

The former Real Madrid star is adamant that he will put his team first but is hoping to add more goals to his game as he tries to help his side lift the Premier League title.

He told the club’s official website: “I want to score more goals than in the last two seasons and that’s my aim for this season.

“I think now and then I need to become a bit more selfish – then I’d definitely score more goals.

“But I’m a player who things for the team first and not for my own needs and that’s why I will carry on to play the way I always do.I think that’s one of my distinguishing characteristics.”

Manager Arsene Wenger has challenged him to try and get 10 this season and Ozil is hoping to start adding to his tally against Newcastle United this weekend.

The Gunners will look for their second win of the season at St James’ Park and they are available at 1.60 to grab three points. Newcastle are the outsiders at 6.00, while the draw is 4.00.