Lee Dixon has suggested to Premier League Productions during their live coverage of Arsenal’s draw at Burnley that Granit Xhaka is one of the players who Mikel Arteta has improved.
The Highbury legend made it clear that Xhaka’s still ‘not good enough’ for Arsenal, as he stated that the youngsters have also improved, including Bukayo Saka, who ‘stands out a mile’.
Over the weekend, Arsenal recorded a 1-1 draw at Burnley, with Xhaka’s error-prone ways showcasing its ugly head once again.
Former Arsenal defender Dixon was asked who Arteta has improved at the club since he was handed the reigns over 12 months ago.
“Strangely enough Xhaka’s been re-born since he came and put him in the team,” said Dixon.
“I still don’t think he’s good enough for an Arsenal central midfield player, for me. I still think they need to improve in that area. Partey’s a good player.
“I think he’s improved the youngsters. I think he has given them an opportunity. We have seen that with Saka, he stands out a mile. Tierney’s going to be a good left-back.”
Well, as Arsenal enter yet another crunch 10 or so days where their Europa League ambitions and local bragging rights are on the line, they are relying upon their youngsters to produce the goods.
Saka is the man to look towards because if he starts ripping it up then Arsenal may well be heading towards a strong finish during what has been a pretty dismal campaign.
What also helps Arteta’s cause is that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is starting to find his feet at the right time.
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