TalkSPORT pundit Alex Crook has launched a scathing attack of Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka following his error that led to Burnley’s equaliser at the weekend.
The Swiss midfielder’s errant pass smacked off Burnley forward Chris Wood and went straight into the net in an incident that struck a major blow to any chances that the Gunners had of qualifying for Europe through the league.
This isn’t the first time that Xhaka has played a part in Arsenal’s downfall, with this stat from Opta claiming that he has been responsible for eight errors which have led to goals, which is more than any other outfield player in the Premier League.
And speaking on the talkSPORT Gameday podcast (23:27), Crook let out a tirade against the £22.5m-rated man, claiming that it is something of a disadvantage for anyone who puts him in their team:
“I can’t be nice to Granit Xhaka. And the obvious answer to how you take the team forward is you replace Granit Xhaka. It’s one of the mysteries of modern times for me that Granit Xhaka has survived what three Arsenal managers and he’s still there first name on the team sheet week in week out.
“He is an appalling footballer. And that goal, summed it up and as long as you’re making mistakes like that, as a manager, you’re working with one hand tied behind your back.”
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TIF Thoughts on Alex Crook’s comments about Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka
Crook is right to be angry when it comes to Xhaka and what he brings, or indeed doesn’t bring to the team. Because these mistakes might end up being worth it if he could at least make for it in other areas, but having only scored nine goals in the Premier League in return, he’s barely making up for it.
Add to that him only being the 12th best player for Arsenal this season based on his WhoScored rating, and you wouldn’t be stunned if this ends up being his last season at the Emirates and he uses the funds to help with the rebuild that some state they need (BT Sport, via The Sun).