Thierry Henry challenges Mesut Ozil to step up after Sanchez exit

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Bengaluru, January 26: Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has told midfielder Mesut Ozil to make the most of the opportunity after Alexis Sanchez's departure as he believes the German has the ability to take up the leading role.

Since their arrival, both Ozil and Sanchez have been instrumental in Arsenal's success and have helped them to win three FA Cups in the process.

However, the pair were in the last six months of their contracts in which Sanchez jumped ship last week to sign for Manchester United in a swap deal. And there has been growing speculation that his team-mate Ozil could also follow him to Old Trafford but only in the Summer.

Arsenal are reportedly doing there best to tie the player down to a new contract and according to many, the German could stay in London if Arsenal agrees to make him the highest paid player in the squad.

But despite all these gossips, Gunners all-time top scorer Henry has now challenged the 29-year-old to show his worth in Sanchez's absence and thrive under the responsibility of being Arsenal's most important player.

"He [Ozil] has to make it his team," said Henry on Sky Sports.

"Alexis Sanchez is gone. If he plays all the time like he did against Crystal Palace, he's unplayable."

Ozil was back to his best in his last two outings for the Gunners after missing two weeks of football due to injury issues. He was phenomenal in the 4-1 win over Palace and was also key in their 2-1 EFL Cup semi-final derby win against Chelsea.

Ozil has played 20 matches for the Gunners so far this season and has registered four goals and six assists.