Arsenal news: ‘Die-hards like myself’ want Granit Xhaka exit in spite of Mikel Arteta ‘dream’ – Campbell
Kevin Campbell has heaped praise on Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka for his “amazing” form in the absence of Thomas Partey.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Gunners and Everton striker claimed the club’s supporters are responding to the 29-year-old’s improvement.
Xhaka has been a key player for Arsenal this season and starred in a 3-1 win over Man United on Saturday.
The centre-midfielder received a great reception from fans at the Emirates for his performance.
As quoted by Football.London (23 April), Mikel Arteta revealed he has ‘dreamed’ of hearing supporters given Xhaka the accolades he deserves.
The Switzerland international’s relationship with Arsenal supporters has been difficult since he threw his shirt on the floor in October 2019.
Campbell claimed “die-hards” like himself would prefer Xhaka not to be at the club.
“Listen, he is playing well and the Arsenal fans are showing their appreciation,” he told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs.
“It is not that the fans don’t like him. It is what he did. The fans were against that. Any fans who saw one of their players throw the shirt down would react the same. There would be a rift.
“The team are doing a lot better at the moment and Xhaka is doing his job. If a player is doing the business the fans will want you.
“Die-hards like myself would prefer him not to be there but that is just me. I didn’t like what he did.
“The fact of the matter is, he is playing amazingly well. He is stepping up in the absence of Thomas Partey.
“He took the goal so well against Man United and it was a big one as well. It was such a sweet strike. It sounds like Arteta loves him.”
In other news, an Arsenal idol has issued a three-word verdict after ‘big’ Bukayo Saka injury news confirmed.