“Unique” Mesut Ozil is very important to Arsenal - Arteta.

German World Cup winner Ozil is still a key player for the Gunners.

German World Cup winner Ozil is still a key player for the Gunners. [Getty]

Mikel Arteta can understand why Mesut Ozil is frustrated due to a lack of game time at Arsenal.

A back injury stopped Ozil from being involved in the FA Cup quarter-final win over Sheffield United on Sunday.

The playmaker Ozil has not featured for the Gunners since the 2019-20 season resumed following the COVID-19 hiatus, but the Spaniard has backed the former Real Madrid midfield maestro to return to the pitch soon.

The German was set to play against Sheffield United in the FA Cup on Sunday but a back injury stopped him from being involved in the match at Bramall Lane.

Speaking in a news conference ahead of Arsenal's Premier League clash with bottom side Norwich City, Arteta explained how important the German is to the north London side.

"I expect a player who is not playing to feel hurt and disappointed," Arteta told reporters.

More: Arsenal head coach Arteta has been impressed by Nicolas Pepe.

"I believe that he is not very happy that he is not playing but as well as that he picked up an injury the other day, so we have to wait and see. I want all of my players at their best and to have the squad as full as possible.

"I know him really well, I played with him. I think he is a very unique player, he has very specific qualities in the way he plays and what he brings to the team.

"I don't think much has changed, he had to adapt to the league, he needed some time, but he established himself in this league for a long time, something which is not easy to do."

Speaking of Arsenal's first match at the Emirates Stadium since the season restarted, Arteta said: "I think it is more equal, the emotion and pressure is different.

"It will be the same at the Emirates – we are all getting used to this. The pressure on the players, referees is different.

"It's a different context and something new for us. To play at home is easier [for travel arrangements], but we are so happy to be back playing. We cannot be too critical."

Follow Think Football Ideas across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.