Arsenal: 5 questions Mikel Arteta must answer

3. How is Kieran Tierney reintegrated?

Arteta has been waiting to use Kieran Tierney for a long time. The Scottish international suffered his dislocated shoulder weeks before Arteta arrived at the Emirates. He has not played a minute since Arteta’s appointment, the season shutting down just as he returned to training. Despite this, Arteta has high hopes for his return.

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Speaking to Ian Wright as a part of Adidas’ ‘Im going to call you campaign’, Arteta said:

"“I’m really looking forward to working with him and giving him the opportunity to play. His attitude, his commitment, his willingness, it’s incredible. I think he’s going to bring something special to us.”"

Tierney’s return to availability spells trouble for Bukayo Saka, who had excelled in an advanced left-back role since the turn of the year. Arteta shifted his entire system to fit Saka in at left-back, a position that is not normal to him, and changed several other roles, including left centre midfield and right-back to provide the balance required for Saka’s inclusion.

Tierney will play the position differently from Saka. He is a more natural defender and not as sharp in attacking areas. How will that change the rest of the team? Could Arteta reverse his prior amendments made to handle Saka’s lack of defensive security or will Tierney simply slide into the same role? Or might Saka hold onto his place and leave Tierney on the bench? Arteta has some answers to provide.