Arsenal idol makes ‘remarkable’ William Saliba claim after ‘big’ Mikel Arteta reveal
Kevin Campbell has heaped praise on Arsenal defender William Saliba for his “flawless” debut against Crystal Palace.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Arsenal and Everton striker said the 21-year-old dealt with everything “remarkably well” in a man of the match display on Friday.
As revealed by WhoScored, Saliba boasted 94 per cent pass accuracy, seven clearances, one tackle and one blocked shot at Selhurst Park.
As quoted by Football.London (5 August), Mikel Arteta gave “big credit” to the centre-half in his post-match press conference.
Arsenal welcome Leicester City to the Emirates on Saturday.
When asked by Football Insider for his assessment of Saliba’s debut, Campbell said: “For somebody so young, there has been so much hype about him.
“He was out on loan at Marseille last season. He was the young player of the year and he broke records with his passing there and became a full France international.
“Friday was the test. He made an impression in pre-season but everybody will always say, ‘Let’s see what he is like in the Premier League.’
“It was effortless. It was flawless. I thought he was brilliant. He stepped up a level alongside Gabriel [Magalhaes]. Gabriel could just play his game. Saliba really calmed down Gabriel. Gabriel did not need to be crash, bang wallop beside him.
“Saliba dealt with everything remarkably well. What a debut. Man of the match by far.
“I am excited to see him again this weekend. We know what Leicester can bring as an attacking force.”
In other news, a pundit has claimed Granit Xhaka is the victim of an agenda after Arsenal controversy analysed.