Arsenal expert admits he was wrong about Granit Xhaka after dressing room reveal
Kevin Campbell has praised Granit Xhaka’s “incredible” form for Arsenal this season.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Arsenal forward hailed Xhaka’s “leadership” and quality going forward.
The 30-year-old scored his second goal of the season in Arsenal’s 3-1 win over Tottenham in the north London derby at the weekend (1 October).
The Daily Mail reported after the game that Xhaka even accepted the blame for Spurs’ goal in the dressing room.
The midfielder initially lost the ball with a loose touch in the penalty area before Richarlison was fouled.
“He’s showing leadership and he’s experienced,” Campbell told Football Insider assistant editor Dylan Childs.
“[William] Saliba headed it out to Xhaka, Xhaka’s touch was poor and that’s what gave it back to Richarlison.
“Like any good team, your centre-half is going to try and dig you out of the problem. Richarlison got on it, it’s smart and cute play from Richarlison and it’s a penalty.
“Gabriel had to try and do something about it because Richarlison was in the box and was going to shoot so something had to be done.
“Something had to be done, it didn’t quite work out.
“You know what, Granit Xhaka, I’ve got to say, he’s doing his talking with his feet. If it isn’t an assist or some really good play, he’s scoring goals. This season he’s been incredible, he really has.
“Many people said he shouldn’t be at the club and I was one of them, I hold my hands up.
“I will support if he’s putting it in for that Arsenal shirt. He’s playing fair better than I’ve ever seen him for Arsenal. I like this Granit Xhaka.”
In other news, Arsenal have reached an agreement in principle on a £52million player contract.