Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
James Whaling

Martin Keown slams Granit Xhaka and claims midfielder is on 'borrowed time' at Arsenal

Arsenal legend Martin Keown has become the latest figure to slam Granit Xhaka after the midfielder's display in the north London derby.

Xhaka had a torrid time in the middle of the park and conceded a penalty when he brought down Son Heung-min in the area.

Harry Kane converted from the spot to give Spurs a 2-0 lead before strikes from Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang rescued a point for the Gunners.

And Keown believes Xhaka is on 'borrowed time' in Unai Emery's starting XI, owing to the form of Mateo Guendouzi.

Keown also believes Lucas Torreira and new signing Dani Ceballos are worth of a place in Emery's side over the Swiss international.

Xhaka endured a torrid time in the north London derby (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

"This is what Xhaka does," Keown wrote in his column in the Daily Mail. "He is like a fire engine that turns up and discovers the house has already burned down - he's that late!

"He does more damage than good when it comes to tackling, so no wonder [Arsene] Wenger told him to stop trying.

"I suspect Xhaka may be on borrowed time in this team. He could soon find himself behind others in the pecking order."

Xhaka brought down Son to give away a penalty (Sky Sports)

Xhaka acknowledged his error for the penalty after the game, writing on Instagram : "Thanks for the amazing support inside the Emirates.

"We showed a lot of character and you helped us to come back into the game.

"For the penalty I made a mistake – I’m of course angry about it but I will never give up!"

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.