With seven victories and three draws so far this season in the Premier League, Mikel Arteta’s Gunners are looking to contend for the championship once more.
Since assuming leadership at the Emirates Stadium, the Arsenal manager has worked to strengthen his depth, and one of the results can be seen in the back.
Takehiro Tomiyasu had to settle for being the starting left back most of the previous season as Oleksandr Zinchenko was the main guy at left.
For the trip to St. James’ Park, the Japan international will now fancy his chances of replacing Zinchenko at left back.
“One of the most popular” players in the Arsenal locker room is Tomiyasu.
Tomiyasu’s outstanding performances, both as a starter and as a substitute, earned him the title of October’s Arsenal Player of the Month.
For example, the £16 million player was crucial to Gabriel Martinelli’s game-winning goal against Manchester City and to Arsenal’s comeback to earn a draw against Chelsea.
After that, in the Gunners’ 5-0 victory over Sheffield United, Tomiyasu scored his first goal, and the bench celebrations told it all.
After the game, when asked about the 24-year-old, Arteta replied, “I love him.” All people adore him. Among the most well-liked people in that changing room is him.
Because he is always so reserved and constantly looks out for the other boys, you can sense how his teammates feel about him and want him to enjoy himself up front.
“A fantastic player for the team.”
Tomiyasu is a strong candidate for his second league start of the season on Saturday against a dangerous Newcastle team on their home pitch since he is more of a defensive player than Zinchenko and is currently in form.