Wenger: I haven't seen Ozil for a week!

Arsene Wenger has confirmed Mesut Ozil is no closer to a return to first-team action as the Arsenal man remains sidelined through illness.

The German has not featured since the 1-0 win over West Brom on Boxing Day and was not in attendance as the Gunners recovered from a disastrous opening hour to salvage a 3-3 draw against Bournemouth on Tuesday.

Ozil drew criticism for his performances in the back-to-back losses to Everton and Manchester City, which severely dented the club's Premier League title hopes before the further dropped points at the Vitality Stadium.

"I haven't seen [Ozil] for a week," Wenger told Sky Sports before the game.

"It was an easy decision [to not include him]. He is still in bed.

"He's not available and I don't think he will be available for the next game as he hasn't done anything for a week."

Ozil is not expected to feature in the 18-man squad taking on Preston North End in the FA Cup third round this weekend.

Arsenal return to league action on January 14 with a trip to Swansea City.