Mesut Ozil quashes Arsenal exit rumours

Arsenal mid-fielder Mesut Ozil has hit back at claims of quitting the club if current manager Arsene Wenger remains in charge, saying that the Frenchman was the main reason behind him joining the club and insisted that he still has respect for him.

According to the goal.com, a Spanish website highlighted that the German International had been planning to switch back to La Liga following the club's dismal show in the Premier League and in Europe under Wenger.

"Have seen the media reports today. Arsene Wenger was a big reason for me joining Arsenal - this hasn't changed! #Respect #AFC," the 27-year-old wrote on Twitter.

Ozil, who joined Arsenal from Real Madrid for 42.5 million pounds in 2013, has won back-to-back FA Cup trophies for the Emirates Stadium club. He is also just three assists away from surpassing Thierry Henry's record in the Premier League.

Wenger's job had been under severe pressure following Arsenal's exit from the FA Cup after suffering a 1-2 defeat at the hands of Watford at home.

With the FA Cup exit, Arsenal's hopes of clinching silverware this season seem to be fading fast as they are lagging 10 points behind leaders Leicester City in the Premier League.