Arsenal legend Thierry Henry is backing midfielder Granit Xhaka to become the direct supply line for record signing Alexandre Lacazette.
The former Gunners star wants manager Arsene Wenger to employ a more direct approach, which will utilise both Xhaka’s accurate left foot and Lacazette’s ability to get in behind defences. He told Sky Sports:
“Granit Xhaka has it in his locker to play that ball over the top… That’s the best ball in the game because you go straight to goal. They don’t like it. That’s where we want to go. Can he play that pass? It is not difficult for Xhaka. They are going to have to learn with Lacazette.”
Wenger is unlikely to stray too far away from the passing game which has garnered him so much praise over the years as Arsenal boss. However, the Frenchman’s recent switch from his trusted four at the back to the three man defence does demonstrate the 67 year old is still ready to make changes to his methods and style of play even at such a late stage in his managerial career.
Whether that will stretch to playing a direct style to best suit the attributes of Lacazette, we will have to wait and see as the partnership between the French striker and his team mates develop.