Takehiro Tomiyasu isn’t happy after being dropped by Arsenal. The Japan international was Mikel Arteta’s first-choice right-back after his £16million move from Bologna last summer.
Injuries kept Tomiyasu from being an ever-present in his first Premier League season. After struggling in preseason, he’s now on the bench.
Ben White has helped the Gunners win six of their first seven league games. Tomiyasu has only had brief cameos. While away with the national team, he pledged to regain his starting spot but acknowledged its difficulty.
Tomiyasu: “This league has high expectations, and I’m not satisfied.” “Look at the Premier League starters to see what’s needed. I’ll work hard to regain my job.”
Arteta has praised both of his right-back options and hinted each will get a chance before the World Cup next month.
He said before the Brentford win that both can play central defense. Tomi is Japan’s left center-back. We have options; we must use them wisely. It’s great that players are comfortable playing multiple positions, especially with the amount of minutes we’ll have in the coming weeks.
It’s a sign of Arteta‘s defensive depth that he has back-four selection dilemmas. White’s switch to the right came after he lost his regular role in the Gunners defense.
William Saliba’s return from loan and integration means £50m-White faces a battle to play in his most comfortable position. His World Cup spot is in doubt after being left off Gareth Southgate’s penultimate squad.
“He’s played both positions, and he’s been selected sometimes,” Arteta said. “I think any manager wants versatile players who can play center-back and full-back like Ben.
“This is especially true in a tournament where a lot can happen.” It’s Gareth and his staff’s decision, but Ben will be ready when called.
Despite starting the last three Premier League games, Zinchenko’s return to fitness could put him on the bench. But Tierney showed he still has plenty to offer by helping Scotland beat Ukraine 3-0.
The 25-year-old has been given a new role at The Emirates this season, inverted full-back. To get his manager’s attention, he said he’s been taking tips from Scotland teammate Greg Taylor, who plays that position for Celtic.
“He’s been brilliant, inverted full-back, and that’s how we play down there, so I watch him every week,” Tierney said. “Seeing him succeed is great because he’s a great guy. I’m close to him, we talk often, so I’m excited for him.
We always text each other after each game. It’s a new role for me and he’s comfortable in it. This season, he’s been one of the Celtics’ best players.