Martin Keown has said that no one could have imagined that Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka would become popular among the Emirates Stadium faithful again, as quoted on BBC Sport.
The BT Sport pundit made the comments about Xhaka following Arsenal’s win against PSV at the Emirates Stadium in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday evening.
Mikel Arteta’s side got the better of PSV 1-0 at home in UEFA Europa League Group A.
Switzerland international midfielder Xhaka scored the only goal of the match.
The £30 million (Sky Sports) star found the back of the net in the 70th minute.
Arsenal legend Keown was hugely impressed by Xhaka and has raved about the midfielder.
The BBC Sport and BT Sport has also said that no one could have imagined Xhaka being back in the good books of the Arsenal fans.
The 30-year-old fell out with the Arsenal fans in 2019 when he was not happy with them for booing and jeering him against Crystal Palace in October of that year.
However, Xhaka is now back in favour with the Gunners’ fans.
MARTIN KEOWN ON ARSENAL STAR GRANIT XHAKA
Keown said about Xhaka: “Granit Xhaka is now becoming an Arsenal fan favourite and who could’ve imagined that?”
The pundit added: “With the role he has, it has given him a lot of licence to move forwards. The quality of the finish was outstanding, the technique was really good and he is going to enjoy that for sometime.
“It was his right foot, his swinger, never scored with Arsenal with his right foot.
“We know he has had a difficult time at the club but that’s in the past and he’s doing well, but he is really important in the side for Arsenal’s success.
“If they are successful and win a trophy, he will get another contract.”