Arsenal linked defender Benedikt Howedes impressed again at the weekend.
Benedikt Howedes impressed for FC Schalke at the weekend, playing a key role in their 1-0 win over Borussia Moenchengladbach.
The Mirror reported this week that Arsenal had sent scouts to watch him in action against Bayern Munich in Schalke’s previous match, in which he scored in the 1-1 draw.
Howedes helped his side keep a crucial clean sheet against Moenchengladbach, as they climbed into third position in the Bundesliga table.
In doing so he made an impressive nine interceptions, above his average of 3.5 per match over the 16 games he has played in the division this season.
This feat is one only one Arsenal defender has accomplished this season in Premier League and Champions League matches, Laurent Koscielny in the stunning 2-0 win away at Manchester City.
| Position | Team | Match | Interceptions Won | Appearances | Mins Played | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laurent Koscielny | DF | Arsenal | Arsenal vs Man City | 9 | 1 | 90 |
| Nacho Monreal | DF | Arsenal | Man City vs Arsenal | 8 | 1 | 90 |
| Calum Chambers | DF | Arsenal | Arsenal vs Southampton | 6 | 1 | 90 |
| Calum Chambers | DF | Arsenal | West Brom vs Arsenal | 6 | 1 | 90 |
| Mathieu Debuchy | DF | Arsenal | Galatasaray vs Arsenal | 6 | 1 | 77 |
| Kieran Gibbs | DF | Arsenal | Arsenal vs Tottenham | 6 | 1 | 90 |
26-year-old Howedes has previously admitted, reported by SkySports last summer, that he wanted to move abroad for a new challenge, and to experience new culture, at some stage in his career.
An experienced German international who has played in the World Cup final, if Arsenal are looking for further defensive options despite signing Gabriel Paulista, Howedes would not look out of place.
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