Tierney or Zinchenko? Arteta told who to rely on as Premier League hits homestretch

FOOTBALL Tierney or Zinchenko? Arteta told who to rely on as Premier League hits homestretch

Kiplagat Sang • 21:48 - 06.04.2023

Unlike Oleksandr Zinchenko, Tierney is more defensively minded.

Former Celtic manager Neil Lennon has advised Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to use Kieran Tierney more as the title race hits the final phase.

Arsenal fans are ambitious that the 19-year wait for the title will come to an end this term, and Lennon, who worked with Tierney at Celtic, has vouched for the defender to play more.

"I think he [Tierney] will be used between now and the end of the season, and I think he is going to play a massive part in Mikel’s plans," Lennon said.

"I watched him play left centre-half for Scotland against Spain, and he was outstanding. He’s a brilliant player who has struggled with niggly injuries over the years, and you hope he can get a good run of games."

Tricky fixtures against Liverpool, Manchester City, Brighton, Newcastle United, and Chelsea await the Gunners.

But with no other competitions left for the Londoners, Arsenal have little to worry about, and Arteta has the luxury of not rotating his players frequently. 

"I really think he is a top defender, and I think the closer Arsenal get towards the end of the season, the more or a role I think he will play," Lennon added.

"I like Zinchenko, and I think he is a fabulous player, but I’m not convinced he’s as good a defender as Kieran."

Lennon explained why Tierney will be the best to play during Arsenal’s match at the Etihad Stadium.

"I think he is actually likely to play at the Etihad against Man City, he may not have as soft feet as Zinchenko – who can manipulate the ball in tight areas – Kieran is more of a dynamic player who drives teams up the pitch," he concluded.

"But he is a brilliant defender, who still has a lot to offer Arsenal and Mikel, which will certainly be in the back of his mind as well."

With lack of games, Tierney has been linked with a move to Newcastle United.