Agbonlahor ‘worried’ about Arsenal as new Jorginho details emerge
Gabby Agbonlahor has claimed Arsenal should be “worried” about playing Jorginho in a holding role after his deadline day arrival.
The former Aston Villa striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 31-year-old cannot play the same role as talismanic midfielder Thomas Partey.
Arsenal announced the deadline day (31 January) signing of Jorginho on Tuesday, with the Italy international to immediately join up with his new teammates ahead of the game against Everton on Saturday (4 February).
Sky Sports updated on Wednesday to claim the Gunners will pay £12million for the midfielder’s services as he signs an 18-month deal at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal were forced into the market amid injury concerns for Mohamed Elneny and Partey, while Albert Sambi Lokonga joined Crystal Palace on loan.
Jorginho won the Champions League with Chelsea in 2020 and lifted the European Championship trophy with Italy a year later.
Arsenal sit top of the Premier League and will play in the Europa League knockout stage later this season.
Agbonlahor told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “He’ll bring a lot of experience, and a lot of know-how about winning trophies.
“But I do worry about him if Thomas Partey is injured. I worry about that midfield.
“He lacks the legs, the pace – he can’t play the role that Partey plays.
“With Odegaard and Xkaha bombing forward, I don’t think you can leave Jorginho as a sitting midfielder.
“It’s a worry for me – and it’s strange that they let Lokonga go as well.”
In other news, Football Insider updates as Premier League chief quits Tottenham amid Arsenal and Everton interest.