It’s been a tough season for Kieran Gibbs, but Arsenal boss Arsène Wenger is backing the defender to prove his worth before the end of the campaign.
A superb run of form has seen Nacho Monreal seal the left-back position, meaning Gibbs has had to wait for cup ties and substitute appearances on the wing to get any playing time. However, he started in the FA Cup third round defeat of Sunderland and will be back in the team on Saturday for the visit of Burnley.
“He went through a period that was difficult for him now he’s back with full power, full commitment, he’s very fit,” Wenger said to the media on Friday. “He will get games, he’s a quality player.”
Just a couple of seasons ago, Gibbs was one of the best left-backs in the country and was extremely unlucky not to go to the World Cup. Now he is struggling for minutes he could also miss out on Euro 2016 in the summer, but that’s not Wenger’s concern.
The Gunners can’t afford to leave Nacho Monreal out of the side so Gibbs will have to take chances like this one when they arise.
“I understand what you say, players have that target of the European Championships but the first and the most important one is the club and achievement with the club.
“To be at the European Champioships is a consequence of what you did with the club.”
Hopefully Arsenal have a successful end to the season and Gibbs is a part of that. At least, unlike another defender, he is facing the challenge head on rather than whining and lobbying for a transfer.