Ian Wright admits one Arsenal player "worries" him

Arsenal midfield Granit Xhaka’s “lack of concentration” is a real concern according to former club striker Ian Wright. 

The 26-year-old Swiss international lined up for the Gunners this afternoon as they secured a 4-2 win over arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the north London derby at the Emirates.

Is Granit Xhaka a problem? what you need to know

1. Xhaka has made 108 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal since joining from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2016.
2. He has scored nine goals but is better known for his competitiveness in the Arsenal midfield.
3. But he has made four defensive errors leading to Premier League goals since the start of last season, the joint-most of any outfielder in the division.
4. Xhaka has also picked up 23 yellow cards and two red cards in all competitions since his move to England.
5. Wright feels the midfielder’s qualities are obvious but is concerned by his lack of concentration.

Arsenal are in fantastic form having won Sunday’s north London derby against Tottenham; they are now unbeaten in 18 matches in all competitions. But former club top-scorer Ian Wright, speaking prior to the 4-2 win over Spurs, expressing concern over Xhaka’s defensive capabilities for the Gunners.

“There is no doubt in [Xhaka’s] football ability,” Wright told fans in an AMA on Reddit.

“Fantastic left foot and has a great passing range. But speaking honestly he is a player that worries me – simply because of the lack of concentration with his defensive duties. Wolves and Cardiff are two good examples. I do like [to] see him trying to organize the team and get people into the right positions – so he does show leadership on the field.”

Wright suggested that he thinks Arsenal could improve upon their options in central midfield by investing in the transfer market: “But, in my opinion, if Arsenal were able to really show some muscle in the transfer market then he would be a fantastic squad player.”

READ MORE: Granit Xhaka reveals his “dream” club after Arsenal

Xhaka’s Premier League season so far

The tough-tackler has been a main part of Unai Emery’s plans this season, playing in all 14 Premier League fixtures to date.

Xhaka attempts an average of 3.5 tackles per 90 minutes, winning 2.1 of them. He also averages 1.3 interceptions which for a defensive midfielder isn’t particularly high.

His defensive cover seems to be lacking too, blocking an average of 0.5 shots and 0.1 crosses throughout the 90 minutes although this could be down to the fact that he plays more central and crosses tend to come from wider positions.

Xhaka is perhaps more appreciated with his passing ability, averaging an 84.8% pass success rate for the Gunners in the Premier League this season.

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