Arsenal star was ‘superb’ in cameo v Crystal Palace, Arteta now has to start him

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal star Jorginho has impressed in recent performances, and was outstanding off the bench in yesterday’s victory over Crystal Palace.

The 32-year-old came on for Declan Rice, who left the field complaining about a potential hamstring injury which will worry Mikel Arteta.

Jorginho slotted in seamlessly into the Arsenal midfield, and his intelligent ability on the ball stood out instantly as he immediately started dictating the game with his passing.

The Italian impressed in Arsenal’s FA Cup defeat to Liverpool, but found himself on the bench again for the visit of Palace, but should now return to the starting lineup for his side’s upcoming trip to Nottingham Forest.

Jorginho’s impressive performance vs Crystal Palace

Rice also shone during his performance, but Jorginho showed why, against certain types of opposition, he is an excellent alternative to him.

In just 17 minutes against Crystal Palace, Jorginho completed 26 of his 29 passes, all three of his attempted long-balls, and pulled off an outstanding assist for Gabriel Martinelli’s second goal in injury time, which meant Arsenal now have the most goals and assists by substitutes in the Premier League this season.

It was a display which oozed class, and highlighted how useful the veteran midfielder is in this young Arsenal squad.

When should Arsenal use Jorginho?

It is no secret that Jorginho’s physical limitations means that against some teams, he can get overpowered in the middle of the park, or caught in transition.

However, when Arsenal are dominant on the ball, he is arguably the best long-passer in the squad, and his ability to find teammates in the final third from deep positions is outstanding.

His performance against Palace was described as “superb,” and he would be useful from the start in a tricky away tie against Nottingham Forest.

His experience and composure will be vital for Arsenal as they aim to secure a win at a ground where they have lost in their last two visits.

He was not needed at the base of midfield against an out-of-form Crystal Palace side, but in games against tough opposition, or tough away games, he is someone who can make a huge difference for Mikel Arteta’s team.

Jorginho arrived at the club a year ago from Chelsea, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he may not have long left in North London. However, he has arguably been one of Arteta’s shrewdest signings, and is a player who is perhaps underrated given his excellent ability on the ball.