Rio Ferdinand believes Mesut Ozil is happy with life under Mikel Arteta following his starring role in Arsenal's win over Man Utd .
Ozil was back to his best in the 2-0 victory at the Emirates on New Year's Day, and helped get Arsenal in front after just eight minutes.
The German playmaker's cross set up Nicolas Pepe to score Arsenal's opener, before Sokratis added a second just before half-time.
After the match Ozil beamed with delight as he was congratulated on his performance by his new boss.
Speaking on BT Sport, Ferdinand said: "Look at that from Ozil, I think that is the first time I've seen him smile in 18 months, and that’s because he must be enjoying training."
Ozil cut an increasingly frustrated figure under former manager Unai Emery, who failed to successfully incorporate the midfielder into his side with good effect.
It looked as though Ozil's time at Arsenal could be up, but the arrival of Arteta has seemingly reignited his Gunners career.
Much of the same could be said for Arsenal's season, as home fans inside the Emirates were treated to a vintage performance from their side.
Arsenal were dominant from the outset, and brimmed with confidence as they comfortably swept United aside.
Ferdinand added: "Arsenal showed a discipline we have not seen on a consistent basis and there is a structure which allows players to be confident. They were quicker and they were stronger."
The win moved Arsenal back into the top half of the table, and just four points off United in fifth.
What would have been perhaps most pleasing for Gunners fans will be the displays of several stars who have previously come in for criticism - namely David Luiz, Granit Xhaka and Pepe.
And Ferdinand was in no doubt about who was responsible for their upturn in form.
"When you don't believe in a manager that subconsciously takes the edge off a performance," he said.
"There must have been conversations with individual players where Arteta has said: 'You're my guy'."
