While the Arsenal and England left back Kieran Gibbs is well aware that his chances to carry on his international career are suffering because of the lack of football he gets at club level, the player he is trying to replace in the Arsenal team could be forgiven for wondering what more he has to do.
Because even though Nacho Monreal came to Arsenal as a full international and has since nailed down his place with the Gunners because of his excellent and consistent form, the international caps have dried up. In fact the 30-year old defender was probably resigning himself to his international career being over as he had not been called up by Spain for three years.
Until now that is, because the usual Spanish fiorst choice left back, Jordi Alba of Barcelona, picked up an injury in the draw away to Italy in the World Cup qualifiers last night. The Daily Star reports that Monreal is the player that new Spain manager Julen Lopetegui has called up to replace him.
That is great news for Monreal and no more than he deserves for his form over the last few years. He may not play when Spain against Albania on Sunday but this will surely be a huge boost to the Arsenal star in any case. Well done Nacho, keep it up!
Bob.