Arsenal team news: Mesut Ozil is a massive doubt for Liverpool clash as he struggles to shake off the flu

MESUT OZIL is a massive doubt for Arsenal's crunch clash against Liverpool as he struggles to shake off the flu.

The German playmaker has travelled with the team to Anfield - but it is highly unlikely he will play.

Ozil is still showing symptoms of the viral infection and Wenger is expected to make a last-minute call on his fitness.

SunSport told you on Wednesday how Ozil was sent home from training by a club doctor because of illness.

Wenger said Ozil "should be OK" when discussing his health ahead of this evening's kick-off.

But it appears that the World Cup winner's condition has not improved and that he will likely be advised to sit out the game against Jurgen Klopp's side.

Ozil has struggled for form in recent weeks but will be a significant loss against Liverpool.

He has lost just once in the six times he has faced the Reds and this fixture has added significance coming at a crunch time of the season with the battle for the top four in full force.

If he does not make the starting XI for today, then either Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain or Alex Iwobi will likely slot into the number 10 role.

Ozil did not play in the 2-0 FA Cup win over Sutton.

He last featured for the Gunners on February 15, in the 5-1 Champions League mauling at the hands of Bayern Munich.

And it is thought he will be fit enough to return for the second leg on Tuesday.

There is some good news for Wenger as Aaron Ramsey can return.