Arsenal Vs Aston Villa: 5 key players to watch – The relentless Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
2. Ainsley Maitland-Niles
This week, Ainsley Maitland-Niles ruffled a few feathers. Speaking with Sky Sports, the 22-year-old said that he is not a defender, is still learning how to defend after growing up as a midfielder, and is trying to block out the criticism of his lack of defensive nous from fans and the media. It might not be the wisest thing to say in public.
On Sunday, Maitland-Niles will be back in the defence, filling in for Hector Bellerin at right-back. His job should be more of an offensive one, like Sead Kolasinac on the opposite flank. He has performed admirably in Bellerin’s stead but clearly lacks the natural defensive instincts and understanding of the Spaniard.
So, with Bellerin set to return in the coming weeks, depending on his recovery from his ACL tear progresses, Maitland-Niles is fighting for a place in the team, either in an attempt to displace the presumed starter at right-back or to push into the midfield thinking. At present, it seems as though that is unlikely, but with two or three good performances in a row, it is not completely inconceivable. He certainly has the talent.