Lucas Torreira not giving up fighting for Arsenal place
Lucas Torreira has admitted that he is frustrated with being on the bench at Arsenal but respects Unai Emery’s decision.
The Uruguayan is one of a number of midfielders fighting for just one position in the team. Emery likes a three man midfield and two of those spots are basically taken. Matteo Guendouzi and Granit Xhaka appear to be the Spaniards go to men which only leaves the one place.
Torreira has yet to play a full game this season in the Premier League and has been discussing the situation with the media this week.
“I don’t know whether I’d say it’s frustrating,” Torreira said.
“All players want to play, they obviously want to be in the starting XI – that’s completely normal. But that’s not something that depends on me.
“It’s down to the coach to make those decisions and really I have to respect that. Right now it’s about not giving up.
Torreira was also asked if he would be happy accepting a lesser role with the team and promised to fight for the shirt.
“You have to continue working hard and whether I’m playing in the starting XI or from the bench I want to give my all for the team. That’s the kind of player I am,” he said
“I like to give 100 per cent for the shirt to help my team-mates and to give the fans something to cheer about.”
Fair comments from Torreira and he could not really say anything different. He could hardly come out and attack his club manager and was very diplomatic with his response.
But it is clear that he is unhappy with a bit-part role and he will have to knuckle down and fight for a more regular place. This is good for the team as it means more players trying their very best. Competition increases the quality of performance which is good for the player as well.