Ozil is key to Arsenal’s win against Barca, Henry declares

ARSENAL will be “practically dead” if Barcelona curb the influence of Mesut Ozil in today’s Champions League clash, according to Thierry Henry.

The Germany international has enjoyed an outstanding season for Arsene Wenger’s side and his absence was keenly felt on Saturday, when the Gunners laboured to a 0-0 FA Cup draw against Hull City with Ozil rested.

Wenger has confirmed Ozil will return for the last-16 first-leg match with the holders at Emirates Stadium and Henry, who enjoyed a glittering career with both clubs, believes the former Real Madrid man is vital to Arsenal’s hopes of an upset.

“Ozil is incredible, he has a ton of assists,” he told Barca’s official website. “He is playing very, very, very well, as he used to at Madrid. After two very difficult seasons he’s doing very well.

“If you can stop Ozil, Arsenal are practically dead.”

Henry has been impressed with Arsenal’s ability to win ugly at times this season and expects them to deploy the same system that saw them shock Pep Guardiola’s Bayern Munich during the group stage, though he warned they must take a positive result to Camp Nou for the return leg.

“I think Arsenal will play as they did against Bayern Munich at home,” he said.
• Culled from Soccerway.com