Granit Xhaka discusses his transformation into a more attacking role under Mikel Arteta and how it’s improved his performances this season.

• Granit Xhaka excelling in a new attacking role for Arsenal this season
• Xhaka’s goal involvements have increased, thanks to a change in position under Mikel Arteta
• Arsenal’s confidence high ahead of their crucial match against Newcastle United

Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka has thrived in a new attacking role this season, underlining his importance to the Gunners as they prepare for a pivotal clash with Newcastle United on Sunday.

Xhaka’s transition further upfield has seen his goal involvements surge, making him an integral part of Mikel Arteta’s team as they sealed Champions League qualification.

The Swiss international has been directly involved in 14 goals this season, with seven goals and seven assists, a marked improvement on his previous best of 11.

Speaking about the change in position, Xhaka admitted that adapting to the new role wasn’t easy at first.

“I had never played there before in my career,” he said. “I had a really good conversation with Mikel about it. Step by step and game by game, everything got better.”

Xhaka’s newfound attacking prowess was on display during Arsenal’s recent 3-1 victory over Chelsea, in which he provided two assists for midfield partner Martin Odegaard.

The win helped the Gunners recover from a four-game winless run, and Xhaka believes their confidence is back on track as they head into a challenging match against high-flying Newcastle.

“It’s crazy how quickly football can change,” Xhaka said.

“After the four games we didn’t win, maybe confidence was a little bit down, but then you have a great chance to play against Chelsea and show a reaction. That reaction was very good.”

Looking ahead to their encounter with the Magpies, who sit just one position behind Arsenal in the table, Xhaka acknowledged the strength of the opposition.

“We know how strong they are, they’re stronger than last season, that’s for sure,” he said. “They know exactly what they are doing with a great coach, and we have to be 100 per cent focused.”

The midfielder is hopeful that Arsenal’s renewed confidence, combined with his own success in a more attacking role, will help them secure a vital win at St James’ Park.

“Hopefully, with luck, our intensity, and our level, we can beat them,” Xhaka concluded.