Mikel Arteta has sent a message of support to Arsenal star Leandro Trossard.
The Belgium international has struggled for opportunities with the Gunners so far this season, playing 94 minutes over the course of three Premier League matches. However, his goal against Aston Villa highlighted the quality that he can add to the Arsenal frontline.
Arteta has consistently kept the faith in Gabriel Martinelli on the left wing though, despite his lack of consistency in the final third which has spanned beyond the start of the campaign. But Trossard has been told that he remains a key player at the Emirates Stadium.
Speaking ahead of the Gunners’ clash with fierce rivals Tottenham on Sunday, Arteta was asked whether Trossard was reliant on other players being absent to play regularly for Arenal, to which he replied: “I don’t think Leo needs any injury to shine.
“He has earned the right, with performances and the way he has conducted himself in any scenario, to have a very important role in the team. He’s a crucial player for us.”
Trossard was the subject of interest from the Saudi Pro League over the summer, but a late approach from Al Ittihad was rebuffed. The Middle Eastern outfit wanted to acquire the services of the ex-Brighton star on a loan-to-buy deal, but Arsenal were unwilling to entertain the approach.
Arteta may be forced to lean on Trossard in a different role in the coming weeks, with the Gunners’ depth set to be tested in midfield. Declan Rice is currently ruled out through suspension, with Martin Odegaard also nursing an ankle injury which he sustained on international duty.
New signing Mikel Merino is also recovering from a shoulder problem, which could leave Arsenal short of numbers centrally.
Trossard could be key in rejigging the system though given that he has thrived as a No. 10 previously and therefore appears to be the likeliest candidate to replace Odegaard in the short-term.
Kai Havertz also cannot be discounted in a central role, despite being the first-choice striker at the Emirates. The Germany international has previously played as a No. 10 and a No. 8, and if he is dropped into a deeper role then Trossard or Gabriel Jesus could be tasked with leading the line for the Gunners.
