Tim Sherwood has told The Analysis Show that Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka is “not responsible” enough in Mikel Arteta’s midfielder and continues to “go missing” – but claims the Spanish boss likes the Swiss ace.
Xhaka, 29, continues to remain first choice at Arsenal under Arteta. He has started 11 of Arsenal’s last 13 Premier League games, unavailable for the other two. Even after a midfield tweak, Xhaka remains first choice.
Arsenal did try to sign a midfielder in the summer but the combination of Xhaka and Martin Odegaard – who Sherwood branded “unbelievable” – in front of Thomas Partey, is working a treat. Arsenal have won five in a row.
Speaking about Xhaka this week, the Tottenham icon suggested that Arteta likes the ex-Gladbach midfielder – but questioned why somewhat. That is, because Sherwood claims Xhaka “goes missing” at times in midfield.
“He’s stuck with him through thick and thin. He’s a good character, in the dressing room, he really likes him. Is he responsible enough? The tweak in formation suggests he isn’t, he goes missing, he drifts out of that position.”
Sherwood on Xhaka: Is criticism of Arsenal midfielder fair?
If you could pick one player to improve upon in the Arsenal side – other than the impending need for a striker when Alexandre Lacazette’s contract expires – it would be in midfield, and namely, Xhaka.
Arsenal tried to sign a midfielder in the summer but were halted in their approach for Juventus ace Arthur. Douglas Luiz was also an option at Aston Villa. This summer, you would expect Arsenal to look to replace Xhaka.
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