John Terry claims Ezri Konsa will replace William Saliba at Arsenal
Former Chelsea captain John Terry claims William Saliba will lose his Arsenal place following the club’s recent signing of defender Ezri Konsa.
The French international missed the opening game of the current campaign after undergoing surgery for a back issue.
In his absence, manager Mikel Arteta deployed Cristhian Mosquera, while fellow defender Piero Hincapie remained on the bench.
The Gunners bolstered their defensive ranks last week by completing a transfer for Konsa from Aston Villa.
Terry backs massive signing
Terry worked alongside the England international during his time on the coaching staff at Villa Park.
Speaking online, the former Blues skipper stated the new arrival is the best value signing of the summer transfer window.
“I think even when William Saliba is back fit, he doesn’t get back in the Arsenal team, I think Ezri Konsa is that good.”
“I worked with him at Aston Villa and he’s so aggressive but also happy to play on the halfway line because if it goes in behind he’s quick enough to get there and recover.”
Arteta seeks defensive improvement
Saliba has established himself as a cornerstone of the Arsenal defence over the past four seasons.
The 25-year-old was pivotal last year as the North London club finally ended their long wait to be crowned Premier League champions.
However, Arteta insists the addition of the former Villa man was necessary to compete with rival squads.
“We just look to improve and do what’s right for us, and look at players we already have who can improve us.”
“Ezri is certainly a player we really liked in the defensive line.”
Konsa ready for versatile role
During his time in the Midlands, the versatile defender helped Unai Emery’s side lift the Europa League trophy.
The new arrival is confident his ball-playing abilities will perfectly suit the tactical demands at Emirates Stadium.
“I like to build up from the back and I like to have a lot of the ball. It’s Mikel’s style and from what I’ve seen from games, it’s the same way the defenders here play.”
“It’s good being versatile. I can do both jobs, right-back and centre-back, but for me ultimately, wherever the manager wants to put me is, I’ll always do a job and do my best.”