3 reasons why Kieran Tierney needs to play more

The Arsenal full-back situation has split the fan base this season, with Oleksandr Zinchenko’s inverted role winning him huge praise from the masses. However, many feel that Kieran Tierney should be used more in light of the Ukranian’s defensive lapses.

On Sunday at Newcastle, Mikel Arteta hooked Zinchenko after 60 minutes and brought on Tierney, which proved to be a hugely successful change, and one that provided Arsenal with exactly what they needed at the perfect time.

The 30-minute cameo showed that Tierney should be trusted more, and perhaps exit rumours are premature given the number of games Arsenal will have next season after they officially secured their return to the Champions League.

3 reasons Kieran Tierney needs to play more

1. He’s not an inverted full-back/midfielder

Yes, you read that correctly. Kieran Tierney is not a player who can play the inverted role, and that should be embraced, not punished.

What Zinchenko offers Arsenal is unique, and the control he gives the team in midfield by always being five yards away from a teammate often allows the team to play through the press with ease.

But, very few can do what Zinchenko does. His technical ability is up there with the best, and he has the vision and bravery to play passes that many couldn’t imagine, which gives Arsenal a tactical edge in most games.

By contrast, Tierney is a modern attacking full-back who can get up and down and overlap his winger, something which Zinchenko cannot do, and their differences should be embraced.

Arteta should play to the Scottsman’s strengths when he is on the pitch; there are plenty of games where those skills are extremely valuable.

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