Its been a tough couple of weeks for Granit Xhaka. After the Crystal Palace incident and a timely apology, its not yet clear whether Arsenal fans would accept him again sometime soon. But you can’t keep him out for long, and with Arsenal travelling to Portugal for tomorrow’s return clash against Vitoria – it might be the perfect time to start integrating Granit back into squad.
I have always made it a point to say, it is all about respect. Supporters should respect the players who are playing for their club, especially captain who is vetoed by this team. Xhaka was team’s choice, he didn’t make this decision, he just accepted what was offered to him like any other player would do, it’s an honorable position ! Xhaka is a good player but sadly he is criticized way too much, even for decision he did not make.
Xhaka will have to face some jibes from travelling fans tomorrow as well, but the fact that its an away game and you don’t expect much of influence of those in the away stands works along perfectly with Unai Emery’s plan to re-integrate Swiss skipper back into eleven and an impressive performance will definitely help his cause.
Emery was seen keeping close tabs on Xhaka in training before boarding that plane to Guimarães, though Unai has a big decision in his hands regarding who will walk out there wearing the arm-band, and that’s whether he allows Xhaka to keep the armband or not.
