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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Jake Polden

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta explains why he's dropped Gabriel for David Luiz vs Liverpool

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says he's dropped Gabriel Magalhaes for David Luiz because the latter "gives us something different".

The Gunners take on Liverpool at Anfield on Monday night, and Arteta has made some changes to the team that beat West Ham last time out in the Premier League.

Kieran Tierney returns from injury and reclaims his position at left-back, but the biggest surprise is Luiz named in the starting XI in place of new signing Gabriel.

The Brazilian, who joined Arsenal from Lille this summer, has featured in both of the Gunners' opening games this season.

He's been strong in both, and was even on the scoresheet in the win over Fulham on the opening day of the season at Craven Cottage.

Explaining why he's on the bench for the trip to Liverpool, Arteta said: "He has done really well and is adapting really well he has played a few games with us.

Mikel Arteta explained why he's dropped Gabriel for David Luiz (Sky Sports)

"David has a huge experience, he's played here a few times as well and he gives us something different."

Luiz's Arsenal career appeared to be over last season following a particularly disastrous performance against Manchester City.

But the Brazilian penned a new one-year deal in June, while Pablo Mari and Cedric Soares made their loan moves permanent.

"I am really happy that we will have these players in our squad for the future," said Arsenal technical director Edu.

David Luiz starts for Arsenal against Liverpool (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

"They have been part of the long-term technical plan [manager] Mikel [Arteta] and I have developed. They bring the right balance to our squad.

"David is a really important player for us. He has played most of our matches this season and has been important for the team.

"His passing, his communication with the team on and off the pitch - he helps everyone."

Would you have dropped Gabriel for David Luiz? Have your say here.

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