3 reasons why Kieran Tierney needs to play more

3. Defending his zone

Much has been made of Zinchenko’s defensive lapses this season, with his supreme passing ability working against him at times, leading to him switching off or playing lazy passes. However, given he has an average pass completion rate of 88% this season and plays over 55 accurate passes per game, it’s safe to say that these lapses are overstated.

One area where he does need to shape up is his concentration when occupying his zone out of possession. Chelsea targeted it and scored a goal completely against the run of play as a result. Newcastle were beginning to target him before Arteta made a change.

When Tierney came on, Arsenal looked more secure defensively, and it was his interception that led to Arsenal’s second goal. The Scot also won both of his ground duels and made two clearances during his cameo.

Those numbers point very much to a player with strong defensive instincts, and one whose qualities are perhaps more suitable to see games out when Arsenal have less of the ball, compared to Zinchenko whose natural instinct is always to play.

With everyone fit, there is no doubt Arsenal are a better team with Zinchenko starting. However, their differences should be embraced. Arteta has two of the best left-backs in the league and should pick the tools for the job at hand, rather than focusing on a style that only suits one unique player.