Granit Xhaka has come under scrutiny in recent weeks, and Arsenal may have to consider dropping him this weekend.
The Swiss international has put in a number of questionable displays, with him being singled out for criticism for his part in certain goals which have been conceded, and there are calls for him to be dropped for the starting line-up.
Mo Elneny has always impressed me since joining the club from Basel, and I feel he hasn’t been given a fair throw of the dice by Arsene Wenger, and his recent outings at centre-back leave me a little bemused by the use of his ability.
The Egyptian is clearly suited to the central midfield role, and his box-to-box style would be perfect for our 3-4-2-1 system, and for me he should be given the nod ahead of Xhaka thanks to his failings of late.
Francis Coquelin is another player who could be in with a shout should Wenger decide that the Swiss international is out of favour, a decision which I feel should have already been made.
Granit struggled in his opening six months of last season, but ended the campaign very well alongside Aaron Ramsey in our new formation, but has left a lot to be desired once again this term.
The 25 year-old is Wenger’s clear choice long-term for the role, and I feel that the Frenchman may be continuing to give him chances due to the fee paid to sign him, although I personally believe he needs a break from his duties, and that may just give him the kick he needs to get back on track.
Does Xhaka need to be benched? Is he the right man to lead our midfield in the long-term? Should Elneny be starting alongside Ramsey this weekend?
Pat J