Ian Wright reveals the one Arsenal player that has struggled since Granit Xhaka transfer exit
Ian Wright has claimed that Arsenal left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko has struggled since Granit Xhaka left the club during the summer transfer window. Zinchenko arrived at the Emirates Stadium a little over a year ago, helping transform the Gunners into Premier League title contenders during his debut campaign.
However, the north Londoners missed out on the title, with Manchester City lifting the trophy before veteran midfielder Xhaka decided that he wanted to leave Mikel Arteta's side in the summer. The Swiss captain then joined Bundesliga outfit Bayer Leverkusen, who currently sit top of the German top-flight.
Now, Wright has argued that Zinchenko is missing Xhaka's presence in the team, hailing the pair's solid partnership on Arsenal's left flank last term. «Again, Zinchenko without Xhaka and what Xhaka done for us, it’s not the same role,» Wright said on his podcast when discussing Zinchenko's quiet display during Saturday's 2-2 draw against Chelsea.
«He doesn’t seem to be able to do it without the way Xhaka was playing and giving him that license.» Zinchenko was taken off at half-time of the game at Stamford Bridge, with versatile defender Takehiro Tomiyasu replacing the Ukraine international.
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE – Aaron Ramsdale to Chelsea, Raya decision, Sevilla build-up
Arsenal press conference highlights — Mikel Arteta on Ramsdale return, Jose Reyes and Sevilla
Tomiyasu also came on during his side's 1-0 victory against City earlier this month, playing a crucial role in Gabriel Martinelli's goal. The Japanese fullback will be hoping that he is given a nod in this evening's starting line-up when the Gunners take on Sevilla in the UEFA Champions League
Read on football.london
