Arsenal legend Alan Smith has backed Gabriel Magalhaes to play a vital role in neutralising Leicester's attacking threat in Sunday evening's Premier League tie.
With five goals in four league matches, veteran striker Jamie Vardy arrives at the Emirates Stadium after a prolific start to the campaign.
The 33-year-old also has a fine record against the Gunners, with 10 goals and one assist in his 11 appearances against the north London club.
Tasked with defending against Vardy is Brazilian centre-back Gabriel, who joined Arsenal from Lille for £23million last summer.
Smith has been impressed by how Gabriel has efficiently gone about his business so far and believes the 22-year-old's speed will help nullify Vardy.
“I want to mention Gabriel, something of an unsung hero since arriving this summer,” Smith wrote in the Evening Standard .
“He is one of those central defenders you do not always notice, thanks to his positioning and anticipation. Because of that, he will often get his body in the way or head on the ball - something proper defenders always enjoy.
Will Gabriel be able to deal with Vardy, or will the Leicester ace score against Arsenal yet again? Have your say here.
“A great athlete, he covers the ground beautifully, which should come in handy with Vardy around. And at 22, the Brazilian will only get better. The early signs suggest he will be around for a while.
“So will (Thomas) Partey, I hope. These two, in fact, could form key parts of a spine that Mikel Arteta is trying to construct. That kind of backbone, missing for some time, is a must in any successful side.”
Gabriel scored on his debut as Arsenal won 3-0 at Fulham on the opening day of the Premier League season.
He has gone on to make three more appearances in the league and featured in the 2-1 win at Rapid Vienna in the Europa League on Thursday.
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