Arsenal: 3 players exceeding expectations so far this season

2. Takehiro Tomiyasu

From the moment he signed there were questions asked over Arsenal’s recruitment strategy. Someone who spent his career operating primarily as a centre-back and plays on the left of a central duo for Japan would come in as the new right-back?

The specific ‘fit’ at Arsenal in terms of profile and character has been well discussed following the summer’s transfer activity, and in Takehiro Tomiyasu it looks as if there has been a success in both departments. Credit goes to those who unearthed this man as the fit for Arteta’s Arsenal.

Barely unpacking his bags before jumping into the starting lineup against Norwich, Tomiyasu followed on from that impressive debut with another aggressive, engaged and tactically composed outing away at Burnley.

Topping the month off with an outstanding North London Derby debut he went on to win Player of the Month. While this award is usually dominated by new arrivals, it’s hard to argue against ‘Tomi’ deserving it.

Granted, the following Brighton match was an doubted blip. He will have much better days.

Benefiting from playing in a very similar system at Bologna, to have slotted into English football with his new teammates and surroundings as quickly as he has is a credit to his utter devotion to the sport. It’s regularly mentioned how obsessed he is with football. You can see it in his performances.

What a start to life for the 22-year-old.

Continued…