Arsenal: 4 positives of Takehiro Tomiyasu transfer

2. Tomiyasu Can Play Across the Back Four

Does Arteta’s use of Sead Kolasinac at centre-back in the previous two matches in place of Pablo Mari indicate his trust in the Spaniard has fizzled out? Quite possibly.

There is fear every time he plays in the heart of defence now and should Gabriel lose form or be out absent, that worry will return.

Being competent with both feet and flexible across the backline, Tomiyasu can provide the cover Arsenal sorely need in almost all of the back four positions. Playing in all of the four slots across the defence, for his country he lines up alongside Maya Yoshida in a back four by playing on the left of the two.

Given the way the season has panned out for some, that is reassuring.

Of course, we hope it doesn’t come to that. He’s been signed as a right-back and right-back is where he should be playing. However, what if White is absent again and not just Gabriel? It’s a move that can help segue away from Rob Holding and Mari who may depart in 12 months’ time – two players who are no more than backups in this squad.

Versatility is always beneficial, even if it’s preferably not needed.