Garth Crooks claims that Granit Xhaka should have left Arsenal years ago because he disapproves of him.
After leading the Gunners to a 3-0 victory over Brentford on Sunday, Xhaka hailed Arsenal fans for a “really fantastic day.”
Three years ago, when Xhaka dropped his shirt to the ground after being jeered off by his own fans during a home game against Crystal Palace, Arsenal fans serenaded him throughout the game and after it. They sang his name.
The incident resulted in the captaincy being revoked for the Switzerland international, and his Arsenal career appeared to be ended until manager Mikel Arteta came and persuaded the player to continue at the Emirates.
He sparked more controversy at the close of the previous campaign when it appeared that he was making fun of Arsenal’s young players, but Xhaka is now, much to the satisfaction of the supporters, playing his finest football. Ian Wright singled him out for praise after the victory over Brentford.
Crooks, though, is still unimpressed by Xhaka and freely admits that he doesn’t like the 29-year-old despite the fact that he looked “quite impressive” over the weekend.
Granit Xhaka is not someone I like, Crooks told the BBC. I find him to be confrontational, too aggressive, and just annoying.
But he can be a really good player on his day. He ought to have quit Arsenal long ago.
But for some reason, he has not only remained with the team, but now, due to his current popularity, he also periodically dons the captain’s hat.
He and Arsenal both had outstanding play against Brentford.
I’d like to know why Brentford didn’t prepare for this game, but given how excellent Arsenal was, I have a suspicion that it wouldn’t have made a difference even if they had. Most alarming
After the victory in west London, Xhaka sent a message to the Arsenal faithful: “Hey people, Granit here.” Excellent victory and outcome; many thanks for your help.
“You’ve been fantastic, but you’ve also been amazing for me to hear what occurred today, to hear you mention my name, and to hear you sing the song for me.”
“This is a very, very special day. Thank you once again, and I’ll see you soon.” Good luck, folks.
After the first seven games of the season, Arsenal is in first place in the Premier League. They next play on October 1 when they face Tottenham in the North London Derby.