Trossard is pushing Martinelli for a starting spot, says Silvestre

Here at bettingexpert, Devang Prasad sat down with former Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre to discuss the form of defender Takehiro Tomiyasu and the importance of super sub Leandro Trossard.

In this article:

• Tomiyasu is a good alternative to Zinchenko
• Havertz is ready to return to the starting line up
• Backup for Bukayo Saka is key
• Trossard is pushing for a starting spot

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Tomiyasu is a good alternative to Zinchenko

Takehiro Tomiyasu delivered an impressive performance against Chelsea, with barely a foot wrong. He also showcased his importance in Arsenal’s recent 2-1 victory over Sevilla in the Champions League. This has sparked calls for the Japanese international to have a more regular role in the Arsenal side. Whilst Silvestre acknowledges the value that Tomiyasu brings to the Arsenal squad, he remains a staunch admirer of Zinchenko’s offensive contributions.

“Tomiyasu is a very good alternative to Zinchenko because you know what you’re going to get with Zinchenko. He’s a steady defender who does the basics simply and well.”

“He understands the game so his positioning is excellent. Long term Zinchenko is ahead of him because of what he brings offensively and Arsenal are an attacking team.”

Havertz is ready to return to the starting line up

Kai Havertz has made a notable positive impact as a substitute in Arsenal’s last two matches. His versatility, being able to play in various positions, has provided Mikel Arteta with tactical flexibility, especially in matches where Arsenal is finding it challenging to break down their opponents. Silvestre highly regards the intelligence of the German international and anticipates that he might soon be prepared to regain a spot in the starting lineup.

“I think the fact that the spotlight is not on Kai Havertz anymore, I think he had time to digest the move and play with his new teammates. Coming from the bench, you have less pressure, you can read the game from the bench and be impactful.”

“He’s a clever player. I think it’s a good position for him to be at the moment and maybe to go back to the starting XI soon.”

Backup for Bukayo Saka is key

The fitness and health of Bukayo Saka have been a hotly contested topic of debate among Arsenal fans. The winger has barely missed a minute of football for Arsenal since breaking and establishing himself in the first team. Silvestre would like to see Arsenal invest in a backup option for Saka in the upcoming window.

“I would try to wing a right winger, an offensive player, that can rotate with Bukayo Saka. Same as Trossard with Martinelli on the other side.”

“That would be the area I would look at because of the amount of games and the need for fresh legs. If you take Saka out, you need someone who can come in and finish the job.”

Trossard is pushing for a starting spot

Arsenal’s squad depth was a significant concern last season in their pursuit of Premier League glory. In January, Mikel Arteta addressed this issue by making a move in the January transfer window to acquire Leandro Trossard from Brighton. Once again, Trossard has demonstrated his remarkable impact when coming on as a substitute during the recent Chelsea game over the weekend.

Silvestre believes that Trossard is making a strong case for a starting position in Arsenal’s lineup.

“Trossard is absolutely pushing for a starting spot. You need players to shake the order, shake the hierarchy. He’s just doing that.”

“I think that’s why he was brought in. Not to be the second player in that position but to really push and have an impact in games like this, when he starts or when he comes on.”

“He’s much older than Martinelli and he’s experienced, so in some situations he will have an edge on Gabriel Martinelli.”

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