After a much needed win against Burnley yesterday, Mikel Arteta has now heaped praise on Arsenal midfielder Jorginho.
Arteta was speaking to beIN SPORTS after the game and was asked about an injury issue Jorginho suffered in the second half for Arsenal.
And whilst giving an update on the Italian’s condition, the Arsenal boss couldn’t help but praise the role he was now playing.
Arteta said: “Well I haven’t checked him but for him to come off obviously, it was certain cuts he had and they could not stitch it there [on the pitch].
“The way he performed, the way he competed today, outstanding. He’s a very important player for me.”
Of course, Jorginho’s role in this side has grown immensely since Thomas Partey picked up his latest injury issue.
Signing for £12m almost a year ago, the 31-year-old has played a crucial role at times, and was effective again against Burnley yesterday.
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Jorginho kept the game ticking over at the base of midfield and did actually win some important duels on the half-way line to sustain some Arsenal pressure.
Arteta now thinks Jorginho is a key part of his Arsenal team
There has been a lot of suggestion that Arsenal would be better off returning Declan Rice to the pivot of their midfield right now.
Rice was once again deployed in a more advanced position and impressed as ever against Burnley.
And whilst Arsenal will face tougher tests to come, it bodes well that Jorginho is playing consistently well enough for Arteta to use Rice elsewhere.
The only negative for The Gunners yesterday was the red card to Fabio Vieira late on.
Vieira has now been heavily criticised by some for his unnecessary challenge.
And perhaps the biggest frustration does come in the wake of all of Arsenal’s injuries.
Although he didn’t start yesterday, many felt as if Fabio Vieira could benefit from some important minutes as Martin Odegaard slowly made his return.
However, Vieira will have a watching brief for the next three games.