Why Mesut Ozil Could Benefit Most from Alexis Sanchez's Absence at Arsenal

This weekend, Arsenal face a significant test. With the greatest of respect to Aston Villa, Arsene Wenger must overcome a more daunting challenge than that provided by Paul Lambert’s goal-shy side: The Frenchman must figure out how to cope without Alexis Sanchez.

Alexis has been the undoubted star of Arsenal’s season thus far, scoring 18 times in 32 appearances. He has featured in 21 of Arsenal’s 22 Premier League games, and Wenger’s side have developed a tendency to rely on his mercurial talents to break down the opposition. Alexis is a gifted soloist, even when Arsenal aren’t clicking, and he is capable of producing moments of inspiration. 

However, a minor hamstring problem means he is doubtful to play in the Gunners’ next game. Wenger confirmed to Arsenal.com:

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The squad will be exactly the same as last Sunday. The only uncertainty we have is Alexis Sanchez who has a hamstring concern, and that will be decided on Saturday. He might be out for Sunday.

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Given that Arsenal face a crucial north London derby next week, Wenger is unlikely to risk Alexis against Villa.

Arsenal will also be without the player most similar to Alexis in style: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

The Englishman has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, with Alexis’ all-action style rubbing off on him. Oxlade-Chamberlain has harnessed his natural power and dribbling skill to emulate the Chilean’s barrel-chested bursts into the final third. It has been a joy to watch him follow Alexis’ lead so closely. If he can add goals to his game, he will be even closer to imitating his idol.

Without that powerful pair, an opportunity is created for someone else to stake a claim for a regular first-team place. The most obvious beneficiary could be Mesut Ozil.

Clive Rose/Getty Images

Ozil started in the wide-left role usually occupied by Sanchez in the FA Cup win over Brighton. It was an impressive return to the starting XI, capped by an excellent goal. Collecting a pass from Tomas Rosicky, Ozil executed two perfect touches before finding the far corner. 

There had been fears that Ozil would be inhibited by his deployment on the flank. Prior to his injury, Ozil appeared disenchanted during an unsuccessful spell on the wing. However, the form of Santi Cazorla means it’s difficult to see Ozil being granted his preferred central role.

Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

Perhaps it won’t matter. His upper body strength seems improved by a couple of months in the gym, and his confidence has benefited accordingly. That might prove more influential than his starting position. Ozil played with an encouraging amount of freedom against Brighton, drifting infield and interchanging with Theo Walcott with ease. Both men could now find themselves starting against Villa.

Walcott’s presence in the side will be another boost to Ozil. Last season, the German suffered from a lack of runners to meet his incisive through balls. The two players seem perfectly suited to each other's strengths, and they have the potential to terrorise Villa by using their diverse strengths to play off the focal point of Olivier Giroud.

Eighteen months into his Arsenal career, it’s time for Ozil to impose himself on the Premier League. The injury to Sanchez could afford him a chance to remind everyone of his substantial talent.

James McNicholas is Bleacher Report's lead Arsenal correspondent and is following the club from a London base throughout the 2014-15 season. Follow him on Twitter here.