Paul Ince claims Arsenal defender David Luiz is playing like an “impostor” under Mikel Arteta.
The Brazilian made the switch from London rivals Chelsea in the summer but struggled during the first half of the season as Unai Emery was given the boot.
However, Luiz has improved since Arteta took charge at the Emirates and helped the Gunners to a third clean sheet in the row in Thursday night’s win against Olympiakos.
Former Manchester United and Liverpool midfielder Paul Ince has praised Arteta for getting the best out of the centre-back.
He said: “You look at David Luiz, he was terrible under Unai Emery.
(Image: Richard Heathcote)
“You look at him now and all of a sudden leadership he’s pulling people in saying well done, well done.
“He wasn’t doing that before, he looks like an impostor now.
“But this is what Arteta demands from him, if you are going to be in that central role you are going to have to show leadership.
“That’s what he’s doing. It’s not just the work they are doing on the pitch it’s what goes on off it too. When it all comes together you will see a proper Arsenal team.”
(Image: David Price)
Meanwhile, Shkodran Mustafi has refused to rule out remaining at Arsenal beyond the end of the season after rebuilding his relationship with the club’s fanbase following his recent resurgence.
The Germany international has endured a strained affiliation with Arsenal supporters since his big-money move from Valencia in 2016 and has often been derided for his defensive capability.
But, alongside David Luiz at the heart of the back four, Mustafi has played his part in three consecutive clean sheets – the first time Arsenal have enjoyed such a run in 10 months.
Asked if he saw his future at Arsenal, he replied: “Why not? I have always taken things day to day.
“We had a game on Thursday, we have the next important game at the weekend and as long as I am playing for a club – it doesn’t matter which one – I play now for Arsenal and played before for previous ones.
“I always gave everything until the last minute and when I decide or when the club and I decide it is going to continue I am happy to continue, if not then we have to go forward.”
