Earlier today, the Japanese Football Association posted an update on Takehiro Tomiyasu which may leave some Arsenal fans perplexed.
Takehiro Tomiyasu returns to Arsenal
In what was a brief statement from the Japan FA, it was announced that the £16m defender would be leaving the camp and returning to north London.
Why? Well, Japan only state ‘club circumstances’ as the reason for Tomiyasu going back to Arsenal.
No injury was mentioned in the short statement, which adds an element of mystery to the situation.
Tomiyasu has not been injured for the Gunners this season, although he has lost his place at right-back to Ben White after a disrupted pre-season, which meant his fitness levels were not at the required level when the Premier League campaign began.
Furthermore, Japan wouldn’t have even called him up to the squad if he was injured.
Therefore, the vague announcement suggests Arsenal have either demanded his early return to London Colney, or the 23-year-old has suffered a problem while on international duty.
If it is the latter, it’s strange that Japan decided not to make that clear.
Tomiyasu will now miss his country’s friendly clash against Ecuador on Tuesday.
Arsenal need Takehiro Tomiyasu to stay fit
In our view, Tomiyasu is highly valuable to Mikel Arteta at the Emirates Stadium, despite failing to get ahead of White, William Saliba or Gabriel Magalhães this season.
The Arsenal No.18 can operate either on the right of defence or in the centre, with his versatility a point of attraction for Arteta as injuries are sure to happen over the course of the campaign.
Cedric is a competent deputy at right-back, as is Rob Holding in the centre, although Tomiyasu represents a significant upgrade on both in either position.
Therefore, Arteta needs the Japan international to stay fit as the Gunners look to compete on all fronts this season.
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