Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards was full of praise for Arsenal’s stars and highlighted two players who may have been overlooked in the club’s success despite their stellar reputations
David Raya and Bukayo Saka have been vital to Arsenal’s success this season, despite not immediately jumping to mind, according to former Manchester City defender Micah Richards. The Gunners are on the cusp of a historic season and are three matches away from a Premier League title in addition to reaching the Champions League final.
The pressure is on for Mikel Arteta’s side to convert their strong season into trophies, but they appear to have recovered from a slight stumble and now have glory within their grasp. And while Arsenal’s stars are all well-respected, Richards believes it’s easy to overlook the impact some have had in recent weeks.
When it was touted by Gary Lineker that “Arsenal are tough to score against” on the Rest is Football, Richards delved into why and had to highlight Raya’s impact.
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“Because they’ve got the balance with the centre-halves, they know each other’s game really well,” he said. “Saliba, as we all know, is very good on the ball, whereas Gabriel is more of a leader.
“I have to add David Raya to that. All the Arsenal players who have got them to this position with the title and reaching the Champions League final – they wouldn’t be there without David Raya.
“Some of the stops he’s made…he should be nominated for Player of the Year. We talk about the spine of the team – it’s Raya, Gabriel, Saliba and Rice.
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“Also Saka. Saka has come back. He hasn’t been quite the same this season but in big moments in games he’s stepped up.
“He showed it against Fulham and gets the goal against Atletico. They’re coming into form at the right time and that’s the most important thing.”
And former England and Spurs striker Lineker believes that is good news for Thomas Tuchel and the Three Lions this summer. “For Arsenal and England, one or two of them, which is encouraging,” he added.
Arsenal currently lead the Premier League by five points ahead of Manchester City, who have a game in hand. The Gunners face West Ham this weekend before matches with Burnley and Crystal Palace.
The Champions League final against PSG will be contested at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, six days following the end of the domestic season. Their England stars may join up with the England camp late due to this commitment.
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