5 Arsenal Alternatives for Granit Xhaka & Hector Bellerin

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 05: A dejected Hector Bellerin and Granit Xhaka of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion at Emirates Stadium on December 5, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images) /

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LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Joe Willock of Arsenal (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) /

Joe Willock – Central Midfield

Roaring Europa League outings catapulted Joe Willock into the limelight, with calls for his inclusion in the Premier League lineup being drummed from every corner of the Emirates.

His performance at Leeds left a lot to be desired, while his outing against Wolves was also lacklustre, but in both cases he’s been fielded in the No. 10 role, one that doesn’t suit.

Against poor European opposition without the quality or structure to dominate central areas, Willock has greater freedom to operate. In the Premier League, physically imposing opponents who are well-drilled will mark him out of the game.

Playing in a deeper role where he can make those trademark late forays into the box are where he may suit best.

The question marks do remain over his long-term involvement at Arsenal and whether he is indeed good enough to make the cut. How long he needs to develop is anyone’s guess, but fielding him in a role more befitting of his ability could provide some answers.

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