Owen Hargreaves told Premier League Productions that Arsenal midfielder Mohamed Elneny gives them ‘something different’.
On Sunday, the defensive-minded Arsenal midfielder scored his first Premier League goal as the Gunners beat Newcastle 2-0.
Last season, Elneny was seen as an unfancied figure under Unai Emery, who opted to send him out on loan to Turkey.
And whilst the £5 million Egyptian (BBC Sport) hasn’t been a regular this season, he has played a lot more and been efficient when used by Mikel Arteta.
Hargreaves described him as a ‘rugged’ player who Arsenal ‘need’ in their team.
“Elneny makes up all that ground and gets into position,” said Hargreaves. “It’s a good finish.
“I like Elneny. I think he gives them something different. He’s more rugged. But I think this Arsenal team need that.
“And if he can pop up with goals then it’s the icing on the cake.”
Elneny is a pretty strong squad player for Arsenal, but question marks will always remain as to whether he can be a regular starter going forward.
But given the season Arsenal have had then it wouldn’t be a surprise if players like him are moved on in the summer.
It’s not a case of Elneny being the problem at Arsenal, but just the whole squad needs refreshing after an abject season in the Premier League.
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