Mesut Ozil has thrown his support behind Arsenal interim head coach Freddie Ljungberg after the Gunners beat West Ham 3-1 on Monday night.
Goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Nicolas Pepe and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the space of nine minutes in the second half turned the game on its head, after Angelo Ogbonna had given West Ham the lead at half-time.
The victory was Ljungberg's first since taking charge of the team in the wake of Unai Emery's sacking, and lifted Arsenal to within seven points of the top four.
Ozil, who started in his favoured central attacking midfield role, praised Ljungberg after the game and said the Swede had the full support of the dressing room.
Ljungberg is not thought to be a serious contender to replace Emery on a permanent basis, with reports claiming former Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta is currently the favourite to land the role, with Nice boss Patrick Vieira and ex-Valencia coach Marcelino also in consideration.
But Ozil says the Arsenal players are "thankful" for Ljungberg's support and backed his ability to coach a top team.
"He was a football player and he understands us as players," he said to Sky Sports.
"He has already shown his quality as a coach and we are thankful we have him.
"Today was a successful day for him and us. It is always hard for the club to change the coach.
"Freddie is a young coach and he is always there for us, which is what we need."
Ozil was also asked about summer signings Martinelli and Pepe, who have both struggled for regular playing time in the Premier League this season. The game at London Stadium was Martinelli's first league start since joining from Ituano FC.
"We are happy for them," Ozil added.
"We know they have the quality they showed today and we are happy they scored important goals for us. We will continue fighting hard to reach our goal for the season."
