Ainsley Maitland-Niles has admitted to Arsenal’s official website that he just wishes Mikel Arteta would pick him more often.
More chances wanted
Maitland-Niles was handed a rare opportunity to start for Arsenal against Watford and he impressed in their 1-0 win.
The versatile Gunners academy graduate was picked to play in his favoured position of central midfield and his energy was key to Arsenal picking up the three points.
Maitland-Niles was a constant menace, as he broke up multiple Watford attacks, and he also showed a fair amount of quality going forward.
It was a reminder of the quality that he does possess when given a chance.
And Maitland-Niles admitted after the contest that he wishes he was a more frequent starter in Arsenal’s team.
“Of course I’m looking for more minutes, I just need to keep my head down and keep going and working hard,” he said.
Good news for Maitland-Niles?
The good news for Maitland-Niles is that Arteta spoke very highly of him after the game.
The Arsenal man’s future was once in question, but it seems that he forced his way firmly under Arteta’s plans now.
The problem for Maitland-Niles is likely to come when Granit Xhaka returns to fitness, as then it is not as obvious to see a place for him in Arsenal’s midfield.
So far this season the 24-year-old has started just four games, with most his appearances coming as a substitute.
Arsenal’s win over Watford yesterday actually has extended their unbeaten run to 10 games.
The Gunners seem to be gaining momentum and they now sit just outside the top four, after their impressive run of results.
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