Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says Mesut Ozil will be treated the same as everyone else as he prepares to select his starting XI to face Fulham in the season opener.
Arteta was quizzed on Ozil, who was frozen out at the back-end of last season, during his pre-match press conference on Friday.
And he says he cannot promise anyone game time, but he will give Ozil a fair shot.
“It’s very difficult to promise game time and it’s part of this period in the market," Arteta said.
“All the players we have available will be treated the same way.
"They all put maximum effort in training and this is what I expect.”
Ozil didn't feature in any of Arsenal's games post-restart last season due to a combination of back injury and selection reasons.
The German's lucrative contract and lack of form have created a complex situation with no suitors in the offing ahead of his contract expiring next year.
But heading into this season, Ozil has told Arsenal he is ready to go.
Replying to a supporter in a Twitter Q and A, the World Cup winner said: "I’m fit & ready and doing my best.
"Unfortunately it’s not in my hands to decide about the squad on the weekend. We will see!"
All eyes will now be on the Arsenal teamsheet for tomorrow's 12.30pm kick-off against Fulham to see whether Ozil is in the frame.
