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Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has urged Mikel Arteta to ditch Willian when the Gunners face Chelsea on Boxing Day.
Arsenal have had a poor start to the season and are currently in 15th place in the Premier League table, just four points out of the relegation zone.
Willian, who joined this summer on a free transfer from Chelsea, has been criticized and Merson has claimed the forward has been “shocking” and “a shadow of himself”.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Merson said: “He was shocking. I’m a huge fan of Willian and at Chelsea he was amazing. Sometimes he was unplayable but he’s a shadow of himself and I don’t. not know what it is.
“He’s the only one you can ask for and again it has to be a matter of confidence. I’m not sure he will play. He’s had enough chances to play, more than the other young players.
“The great Arsenal players haven’t played in the past six weeks and that’s the problem Arteta has had.
“[Pierre-Emerick] Aubameyang scored the other day, but he doesn’t really seem to score. His body language hasn’t been great, Nicolas Pepe doesn’t even start all the time and Willian looks like he’s being carried. “
(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Merson has also claimed that Kieran Tierney is expected to replace Aubameyang as Arsenal captain, praising the Scotland international for the partnership he is developing with Bukayo Saka on the left.
“I would give it to Tierney as he walks through a brick wall for you,” he added. “He’s the only player I watch who gives it everything, and I would give him the captain position.
“There’s a way to show how much you care, and the relationship he’s building with Bukayo Saka on the left looks decent. Arsenal need it all over the pitch, and right now they’re in a battle. of relegation.
“For me, I don’t see them doing what Burnley can do, roll up their sleeves. Arsenal are looking for the perfect win, but they have to start getting results.”
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