Mesut Ozil must focus on what convinced Arsenal to make him the club's record signing rather than become obsessed with living up to expectations, according to manager Arsene Wenger.
The German playmaker produced another subdued display in the 5-1 thrashing at Liverpool on Saturday, when he again drifted in and out of the match.
Gunners fans and pundits alike are starting to become impatient with the 25-year-old, who arrived from Real Madrid in a much-heralded 42.5 million pound deal on deadline day in September 2013.
Ozil's past eight appearances have returned only two assists and no goals.
However, Wenger is in no doubt the midfielder has all the qualities needed to develop his game in the English Premier League, with another stage set to showcase his talents on Wednesday night when Manchester United come to the Emirates Stadium.
"Ozil feels the pressure of course, because he knows a lot is expected when you are a big transfer. There is a big expectation level, but he should not worry about that, just play in the team and enjoy it, give his best. That is the best way to deal with it," said Wenger.
"But on the other hand, you must say he doesn't come from a small club - he comes from Real Madrid where the pressure is always huge as well, so he is used to it."
Ozil, of course, is not the first player who might need time to adapt to the hustle-and-bustle of the English top flight, and Wenger stressed everyone must be patient.
"He thinks it is more physical here for sure and he works on his body strength to deal with it," said the Arsenal boss.
"He needs understanding, because he always wants to do well.
"He is not a guy who doesn't care, his style can sometimes look like that, but he is really the opposite character."
