Arsenal’s Ainsley Maitland-Niles deserves credit.
Arsenal youngster Ainsley Maitland-Niles has been one of the success stories under Unai Emery.
The 21-year-old has been a regular in 2019, making the right-back position his own after a season ending injury to Hector Bellerin.
Strangely for a young English talent, Maitland-Niles’ progress has flown largely under the radar.
Compare him to Crystal Palace’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who has been touted as the future of England’s right-back position.
Maitland-Niles may have something to say about that if he continues his strong form.
He has been impressive in the Europa League, even scoring in the win over Rennes, and played a key role as Arsenal shut out Manchester United last month.
Perhaps counting against Maitland-Niles is the fact he can play in multiple positions. On a previous loan at Ipswich Town he featured largely as a midfielder.
His stint at right-back never really felt permanent, but his form now is suggesting it could be.
Maitland-Niles’ performances are even more impressive considering the serious injury he suffered last year.
It shouldn’t be long before England recognition comes his way.
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