Arsene Wenger: 'Mesut Ozil is a leader'

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has stated that midfielder Mesut Ozil has developed into one of the team's leaders.

The Germany international set up Kieran Gibbs's 77th-minute equaliser in Sunday's North London derby draw with Tottenham Hotspur, taking his tally of assists to 10 in 11 Premier League games this season.

Wenger has said that he is pleased to see Ozil becoming one of the most important players in the Gunners side.

"Mesut was outstanding again," Wenger told Arsenal's official website.

"He has grown into a very great player as he has added commitment, leadership qualities and responsibility. I'm very pleased with his development."

Arsenal are joint top of the Premier League with Manchester City, having taken 26 points from 12 games.