Published: 21 December, 2015 
By TOM FOOT at the Emirates Stadium
Premier League

ARSENAL 2, MANCHESTER CITY 1 

MESUT Ozil shrugged off a chest infection to orchestrate a crucial 2-1 win over title rivals Man City. 

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger revealed that the playmaker almost missed the match but that his new "physical attributes" had helped him overcome his winter illness.

Ozil set up both goals in another commanding performance that had the home fans purring.

After the match Wenger said: "This year he is much more mature and much more keen to take responsibility. He has developed his physical attributes and his commitment and his desire to win. I was cautious [to play him] because had a chest infection on the weekend, but he is stronger now."

Belief is channelling through this stylish, steely squad and among the fans who roused the players out of a sleepy, stuttering start.

City had been on top and looked to be taking control, but Theo Walcott's powerful curler and Olivier Giroud's calm finish sent the Gunners in at the break brimming with confidence. 

Wenger said: "It was a vital game. We had big organisation, strong solidarity and moments of brilliance – moments when we had to hang on. It was very intense."

He said it was too early to talk about the title but admitted the win "strengthens our belief", adding: "What is interesting is there is a real life in this team, great solidarity. We need to protect that."

Arsenal did not have a shot in first half until Walcott – who put in an uncharacteristic battling display – unleashed a fierce strike past Joe Hart on 33 minutes. 

City had wasted two good chances before a run of unpunished fouls fired up the home crowd and sparked the Gunners into action.

With the last kick of the first half, Ozil was allowed time to spin on the ball and set Giroud in on goal. 

Petr Cech – the coolest man in the stadium – made several saves and blocks in high-pressure situations. So often this season he has kept the lead in tact and the confidence high. 

There was, however, nothing he could do about Yaya Toure's dreamy dipper into the top corner on 82 minutes.

The home fans' pomp evaporated and the tension became unbearable as City piled on the pressure, but Arsenal dug deep and and saw it out.

City boss Manuel Pellegrini said: "We have character. When you fight back against a very good team like Arsenal, you can see we have character."

Wenger revealed that Alexis Sanchez would not be back from injury until around January 6.

ARSENAL: Cech, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Monreal, Bellerin, Ramsey, Flamini, Walcott (Chambers, 88), Ozil (Oxlade-Chamberlain, 76), Campbell (Gibbs, 70), Giroud. 
Subs not used: Gabriel, Ospina, Iwobi, Reine-Adelaide.
Attendance: 60,053.