Mesut Ozil has started his Arsenal career in fine fashion, providing an assist as they lead at Sunderland in the Premier League.

The Gunners quickly settled into their stride and were in front after just 10 minutes when Giroud, who had previously not scored a league goal outside of London, latched on to Ozil's pass to put Arsenal in front.

However, Sunderland almost levelled within minutes after Modibo Diakite headed Charalampos Mavrias's corner against the crossbar.

The frenetic nature of the game continued as Aaron Ramsey's precise pass found Theo Walcott bearing down on goal only to be denied by Keiron Westwood.

Ozil nearly capped a dream start when he curled a free kick over the bar from 25 yards out, but the German international was a constant threat as he linked up with Jack Wilshere in midfield.

After the initial fightback from the Black Cats, the dominance of possession by Arsenal meant that they appeared the more likely to score.