Arsene Wenger – This Arsenal star plays exactly like Per

Arsenal boss Arsene Wegner has hailed Germany international defender Shkodran Mustafi’s leadership attribute and likened the centre-half to Per Mertesacker.

The Arsenal defender returned to club action against North London giant Tottenham on Saturday afternoon after six weeks out with a thigh problem and headed the important opening goal in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory in the first north London derby of the season.

After signing for the Emirates club from Spanish La Liga side Valencia last year, the German endured an inconsistent debut season in English top-flight.

But Arsenal are yet to let in a goal in the English Premier League this campaign when he has played alongside France international defender Laurent Koscielny at centre-back.

And French tactician Arsene Wenger believes the German brings greater organization in defence and compared the centre-half to German compatriot and colleague Per Mertesacker.

Arsene Wenger said despite being 10 years younger than Per, Mustafi is similar to the Arsenal captain on a mental front, admitting he’s a leader and motivator.

He confirmed the defender has a strong focus and challenges well and neatly. The defender undoubtedly had an outstanding performance against Spurs.

Chilean international Alexis Sanchez added to Shkodran Mustafi’s opening goal at the Emirates Stadium to move the Gunners to just a point of Tottenham in the English Premier League log.