Submitted by content on Wed, 02/27/2019 - 11:00
Arsenal legend Martin Keown believes the winter signing of Denis Suarez at the Emirates should provide further competition for Granit Xhaka at the heart of the midfield. The Switzerland international has been lacking the defensive awareness on multiple occasions during the ongoing campaign and Keown feels the arrival of Suarez could spell trouble for Xhaka’s position in the team.
In a report covered by The Star, Keown said that manager Unai Emery is unlikely to consider dropping the likes of Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi from the starting XI and this should directly impact on Xhaka’s position, should Suarez be needed on the playing field. He added that he was surprised by the Gunners’ inability to sign a new centre-back in January, although Emery is clear with the mindset to control games after the recruitment of Suarez.
He said: “The arrival of Denis Suarez at Arsenal puts pressure on Granit Xhaka. Unai Emery is not going to drop Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi has showed promise. I am surprised Emery did not prioritise signing a defender. But this move clearly suggests that he wants to improve Arsenal’s ability to control games in midfield.”
Submitted by content on Wed, 10/24/2018 - 08:12
Arsenal legend-turned-pundit Martin Keown believes summer signing Lucas Torreira has revived the career of Granit Xhaka. The Switzerland international was constantly criticised for his limited mobility during the previous campaign but such issues have been few and far between this season with Torreira making up the hard yards to intercept play.
In a report covered by Metro, Keown cited that he is pleased with the club’s overturning their poor away form, which was a highlight through the 2017/18 campaign. He added that he was impressed with the grit and determination of the whole side during the recent 5-1 mauling of Fulham while indicating the balance brought about by Torreira - who has allowed Xhaka to be more creative.
