Arsenal vs. Hull: Arsene Wenger Talks Monaco and Mesut Ozil in Pregame Presser

Arsene Wenger took little time to dismiss speculation he may leave Arsenal for Monaco, telling members of the press recent reports are "completely untrue."

Wenger spoke during the pre-match press conference ahead of his side's Saturday fixture with Hull City. Miguel Delaney of ESPN FC tweeted the Frenchman's rumour-crushing response:

Sam Cunningham of the Daily Mail published the story in question late on Wednesday night. He suggested Monaco are looking to "tempt" their former manager back to the Stade Louis II with a £10 million per year, tax-free deal.

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Monaco vice-president Vadim Vasilyev previously said he doesn't "know if one day he will want to come back, but we keep a very good relationship," per Cunningham. "Last time we exchanged was during the Emirates Cup. He keeps a strong affection for Monaco."

Wenger is working through the difficult task of making Arsenal regular trophy winners again. Last season's FA Cup victory ended a nine-year drought for the Gunners, who need to be challenging across the board more regularly.

The manager joked his workload may be punishment for some previous laziness, per Arsenal's official Twitter account:

Wenger took time to discuss Mesut Ozil's injury, confirming the German is expected to return in early December. He also provided more satisfying news, as tweeted by James Olley of the London Evening Standard:

Worryingly, the Gunners boss suggested he and his staff missed an opportunity to stop Ozil's long-term absence during the loss to Chelsea before the international break. Olley reported Wenger's comments:

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Delaney believes Ozil's time on the sideline could be a blessing in disguise:

Aaron Ramsey's imminent return should see Ozil's void filled, however, as noted by Olley:

Arsenal are currently eighth in the Premier League after amassing 10 points in seven matches, per WhoScored.com. The north London side's loss to Chelsea was their first of the season and came against a side who remain unbeaten. Four frustrating draws ensure they are nine points off Jose Mourinho's league leaders and equal with a Liverpool squad who have performed poorly this season.

Hull represent a stern test after the international break, particularly with the Emirates club's current injury problems. Steve Bruce has built a powerful, well-drilled side and will be looking to push on from 11th position.

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The Tigers are just one point behind Arsenal before kick-off after suffering defeats to Aston Villa and Manchester City. They will be looking to exact some revenge for last season's FA Cup final, which saw the underdogs go 2-0 up before goals from Santi Cazorla, Laurent Koscielny and Ramsey captured the trophy after extra time.

Goals from Nicklas Bendtner and Ozil sent Wenger's team to a 2-0 victory over Hull during last season's corresponding fixture. The home side were top of the league at this point and appeared well placed to launch a significant title challenge. This wasn't to be, but there's no denying the Gunners faithful will be demanding a similar performance this weekend.

Arsenal's only clean sheet of the season came against Aston Villa on Sept. 20. Even during matches the side have thoroughly dominated—such as the 4-1 Champions League trouncing of Galatasaray—goals have been conceded. Hull will offer a physical challenge and will look to spring forward quickly with the likes of Abel Hernandez and Mohamed Diame bursting into life.

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Victory is immensely important at this point for the hosts. Arsenal cannot afford to lose any more ground and will be desperate to ensure Chelsea's lead isn't stretched any further. Wenger was wise to dismiss Monaco's interest and provide an honest update on his squad, who have plenty of work to do if silverware is to be deemed a viable goal for the season.