Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has suggested that Eberechi Eze is a player that needs to be deployed in midfield, with Mikel Arteta using him out wide at the moment.
Eze made the move to the Emirates Stadium from Crystal Palace during the summer transfer window, and he’s now started the last two games for the Gunners. The England international was been deployed on the left-hand side of attack, making a front three involving Viktor Gyokeres and Noni Madueke. Last time out in the Premier League, Eze produced an assist for Gyokeres, but he was less effective against Athletic Club in the Champions League.
During his time at Palace, Eze was predominantly utilised in an attacking midfield role, and he flourished in this position, earning himself a move to Arsenal. With the likes of Martin Odegaard, Ethan Nwaneri, Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, and Mikel Merino competing for positions in the middle of the park, Eze might have to get used to playing out wide.
Martin Keown: Eze Must Play in Midfield for Arsenal
Speaking on TNT Sports, former Arsenal defender Keown suggests that Eze could play in midfield, discussing their upcoming game against Manchester City in the Premier League. Keown goes on to say that’s where he wants to see Eze deployed, after playing out wide against Athletic Club this week.
“There is the possibility that Eze could play as a midfield player. I’d start with Martinelli and play Eze in midfield. Eze is a player that I want playing in that midfield.”
Eze showed against Nottingham Forest at the weekend that he is capable of playing out wide, but there’s no doubt he’s been most effective during his career when played in the middle. It will be interesting to see if the former Palace star does make his way into the middle of the park at the weekend, with Odegaard currently out injured.