Alan Shearer has picked Arsenal midfielder Jorginho in his Premier League Team of the Week and praised the Italian in what was his second start for the Gunners since joining the club from Chelsea – saying he was his side’s best player.
With Thomas Partey still injured, Jorginho started his second successive match and notched up his third appearance for Arsenal – having made his debut as a substitute against Everton. Arsenal went behind twice, during a 4-2 win over Villa.
Ollie Watkins scored first and then, Philippe Coutinho cancelled out Bukayo Saka’s equaliser. However, Arsenal were much better in the second 45. Oleksandr Zinchenko made it 2-2, before Jorginho provided the decisive blow late on.
Indeed, it was his strike from the best part of 25 yards that struck the bar, hitting ex-Arsenal man Emi Martinez – and the ball bobbling into the net. Gabriel Martinelli made it 4-2 late on. A crucial, crucial win for Mikel Arteta’s men.
Shearer picked Jorginho – the only Arsenal player – in his Premier League Team of the Week. He wrote, after the Italian practically scored: “Never panicked and was always in control. His cracking effort produced the third goal.”
ALAN SHEARER SAYS JORGINHO WAS BEST PLAYER FOR ARSENAL IN SECOND START
There was a concern that when Partey did get injured, Jorginho might not have the same physicality, he could struggle. That was evident in the 1-0 loss to Everton. He failed to stop Manchester City’s midfield. Darren Bent was critical.
But, Arsenal bossed the ball, dominating the game against Unai Emery’s Villa, Jorginho’s strengths shone through. His passing was superb. Jorginho is best in transition and fed the Arsenal attackers, getting the ball higher up the pitch.
His strike, under enormous pressure, was almost inch-perfect. Ultimately, it was a bit of luck that got Arsenal the win – but Jorginho earned that luck. A superb strike, almost deserving of a goal. It will do him and Arsenal the world of good.
