Heavily criticised Arsenal star is ‘still vital’ for Mikel Arteta despite exit rumours

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Arsenal star Oleksandr Zinchenko has been absent in his side’s recent incredible run of form, and some fans have quickly forgotten his importance.

Zinchenko was on the receiving end of heavy criticism earlier this season after several high-profile defensive errors, but the consensus with the left-back is that what he lacks in ruggedness, he makes up for with his ability on the ball.

With Jakub Kiwior performing well recently, and Zinchenko linked with Bayern Munich, there have been suggestions that Arsenal should cash in on the former Manchester City star.

However, it has now been claimed that the 27-year-old is still crucial for Mikel Arteta despite his recent lack of starts, and his form prior to his injury.

Oleksandr Zinchenko is still important for Arsenal

The Standard have named Zinchenko as a player Arsenal should keep, rather than selling this summer, and highlighted that his profile is still necessary within the squad.

“Divides opinion but few players are better on the ball when fit. Still vital to how Arteta wants to play,” they stated of the Ukrainian.

Zinchenko starts in an inverted left-back role, which sees him tuck into midfield when his side are in possession. Kiwior was initially unable to do this, and Ben White now inverts from the right to help accommodate for him.

Zinchenko will need to return to the Arsenal starting XI soon

Despite Kiwior’s impressive defensive displays, in some game situations, Arsenal may need someone more comfortable on the ball when dominating possession.

Zinchenko looked rusty when he came on against Porto in the Champions League, but still made several line-breaking forward passes which only he is capable of out of the defenders in the squad.

Jorginho has excelled in midfield recently, and there is a case to be made that Arsenal are at their best on the ball with one of him or Zinchenko on the pitch at any given point.

If Arsenal are to face games similar to their victory over Brentford, which saw them struggle to break down a deep block, then Zinchenko will be a crucial figure in helping progress the ball from the back to add more creativity to the side.

Any offer this summer should not even be entertained for Zinchenko, who is one of the most experienced leaders within the squad, and a four-time Premier League winner.