Riccardo Calafiori has massively improved in one area this season, and it isn’t being spoken about enough

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Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori deserves so much more praise than he’s been receiving.

The Italian arrived at Arsenal last summer, but had a rather underwhelming first season.

Mikel Arteta took a gamble signing Calafiori, as the Gunners had concerns about his injury record, which plagued his first season in red and white.

Now, Calafiori looks fitter, more confident and more engaged in his duty, becoming Arsenal’s first-choice left-back for good reason.

• READ MORE: Riccardo Calafiori really can do it all

Riccardo Calafiori’s defensive work has improved so much

While it’s important not to praise a fish for swimming, it’s actually necessary to praise Calafiori for defending.

The 23-year-old has grown so much since last season in defence, earning his place in the starting XI with consistently strong performances at left-back.

Last term, Calafiori was slammed by Arsenal fans for his defending, often suffering lapses in concentration and being caught out by his opponent.

This season, things couldn’t be more different, and the numbers prove it.

Opta revealed the best fullbacks in the Premier League this season when it comes to preventing being dribbled past.

Calafiori is fourth on the list, having been dribbled past just six times this season from 45 attempts.

It’s a remarkable feat given that it wasn’t long ago that Calafiori’s defending was questioned, showcasing his improvement over the past year.

Going back to the fish for swimming expression, a defender shouldn’t be praised for defending, but should absolutely be applauded for clearly improving his game.

Jurrien Timber reinforces that he’s undroppable

It’s not only Calafiori who is a talking point from Opta’s data, as it’s impossible to ignore that Jurrien Timber is top of the list. 

It’s a good time for the statistics to be revealed, as there has recently been discussion about Ben White’s claim to the starting XI. 

White connects so well with Bukayo Saka in a way that even Timber can’t compete with; however, the Dutchman is undroppable, and it’s clear to see why. 

No Premier League fullback has been dribbled past fewer times than Timber this season, who is only beaten 9% of the time by the opposition, which is crazy. 

With Timber and Calafiori, Arteta has two fullbacks who have truly taken Arsenal to the next level.