Former Arsenal defender William Gallas hits out at Oleksandr Zinchenko

Arsenal Oleksandr Zinchenko in action

Former Arsenal defender William Gallas hits out at Oleksandr Zinchenko

Stephen Oladehinde 17:55 - 26.04.2023

Oleksandr Zinchenko's defensive ability has been slammed by William Gallas after the defender had a bad run of games.

The league leaders recently dropped points from a winning position against Liverpool, West Ham and Southampton leaving them in a tight position as they head to Etihad for a crucial tie against Manchester City.

In recent events, Zinchenko was a culprit for Southampton’s third goal having failed to mark his man thereby allowing Duje Caleta-Car to head the ball in. Gallas has now criticised the defender for switching off in the defence when needed.

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Zinchenko will find it difficult playing against CIty says Gallas

The 25-year-old has played as an inverted full-back this season for Arsenal and has been successful on many occasions. However, he was heavily criticised for getting easily beaten by Trent Alexander-Arnold during a 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Anfield

Former Arsenal defender Gallas insists that Zinchenko will find it hard to play against his former team highlighting his defensive weakness as an issue for him. 

Speaking in an interview, Gallas said, “The defence was terrible. 'Zinchenko and Gabriel Jesus were below par and Thomas Partey wasn't at his best. 

“Zinchenko was sleeping for Southampton's third goal. It was not the first time he has been found wanting. Defending is not his strength. One versus one is often a problem.”

Gallas expects Zinchenko to manage games

Zinchenko’s ability to use the ball in midfield and manage games has helped Arsenal this season so far, but recently he has not been at his best.

Still speaking, he said, “Zinchenko is one of Arsenal's most experienced players and, in these types of games, you need that experience, you want to see him managing the game. 

“But we haven't seen that. He hasn't performed very well in the last few matches. It will be difficult at City, it'll be emotional.”

Mikel Arteta's side are currently five points clear of their title rival City but have played two games more. If City defeats Arsenal tonight, they will close the point gap to two points with two games in hand.