Arsenal legend Ray Parlour has suggested David Luiz should be tried out in a new position by Gunners boss Mikel Arteta.
The Brazilian’s stay at the Emirates Stadium was extended last week as he signed a new one-year deal with the club.
The decision raised a few eyebrows among the Arsenal supporters, particularly after his error-strewn performance against Manchester City in the Gunners’ first game back as part of the Premier League’s return.
With the 33-year-old staying put though, Parlour believes Arteta shouldn’t persist with Luiz in his usual position at the heart of the defence.
Instead, the former midfielder believes the Brazilian’s ball-playing ability could be utilised a little further up the pitch.
“He makes too many mistakes, and at 33 he is not going to learn,” Parlour told PA Sport.
“You have to look a little bit higher than David Luiz.
“He could be a squad player and you could play him as a holding midfielder.
“He has got a range of passing and you know if you make a mistake there you have centre-halves behind you, that could be a role for him.”
Parlour also issued a warning to his former club as they struggle to secure themselves European football for next season.
They could qualify for the Europa League, and the FA Cup could be a viable path for them having booked their place in the semi-finals on Sunday, but the Champions League looks to be out of the question.
“Arsenal need to get back into the Champions League by spending more money and taking more of a gamble as a club,” Parlour added.
“Arteta has done everything right so far, but now it is up to the club to back him.
“The lower you get and the more ambition the other teams get then it is going to be difficult for Arsenal to challenge again.”
