Kevin Campbell told the Highbury Squad Podcast that he would ‘start’ William Saliba for Arsenal next season and put ‘fear’ into the opposition’s eyes.
The Arsenal legend & Sky Sports pundit thinks Mikel Arteta has to provide the currently loaned out Frenchman with a chance next season.
Saliba is currently out on-loan at Nice, and upon his return, he will be hoping that he can fight for a first-team spot.
Campbell feels pre-season will be very important for Saliba, as he wants the ‘quick’, ‘strong’ and ‘aggressive defender to start alongside Gabriel next term.
“When you come back, this is what I am hoping, you will get your chance,” said Campbell. “I think Mikel Arteta could assess all the defenders in pre-season.
“Hopefully, there will be a pre-season and he can have a look at him. I just think, the amount of money we invested in Saliba. If he can have a decent pre-season then there’s an opportunity for him at the football club to start because he’s good on the ball, he’s quick and he strong. And Gabriel needs a partner.
“You don’t invest £30 million in a kid, who they are calling the next Varane and you don’t give him a chance – I would start him (next season).
“I really would start him. 100% (with Gabriel). We invested big-money in both. What’s the point of leaving one on the sidelines? Play them both. Get them in there. They are both young, quick, strong, big and aggressive. Let some strikers fear our defenders.”
Whilst many questioned Arteta’s treatment of Saliba last summer, the £27 million star (Sky Sports) surely has to be given a chance upon his return.
Whilst Arsenal have depth in the centre-back department, they aren’t exactly blessed with quality in those areas.
And as Saliba’s former teammate, Wesley Fofana, is proving at Leicester, if provided with that chance then those risks will be met with rewards.
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