Big Arsenal boost ahead of West Ham with Mikel Arteta proven right again about key midfielder

Grant Xhaka has crowned off a significant month where he’s been the most influential player for the Gunners by being named the Player of the Month.

The midfdielder’s change in fortune is remarkable after it seemed he was destined to leave the club in the summer.

Last season when he had his captaincy stripped for throwing the band on the floor after being replaced against Crystal Palace, there seemed to be no way back for him, but he’s proven that with hard work and determination there is always a way.

The Swiss captain reminded every one of his quality and ability after drilling home a belter to seal a 3-1 win over Manchester United last weekend.

Before that he was instrumental playing a double midfield role and helping the team at left-back when Arsenal pressed forward to ensure the Gunners defied odds and won away at Stamford Bridge.

It’s fascinating to think that the midfielder nearly joined Jose Mourinho at Roma and only stayed behind at the Emirates because his manager Mikel Arteta insisted he wasn’t for sale.

Xhaka has never hidden his admiration for his manager and recently admitted he is only at the Emirates because his manager convinced him to stay.

A visibly excited Arteta said the midfielder deserves all the credit he’s getting at the moment because of his attitude.

“He’s been through alot, he’s been through difficult moment here, he’s found a lot of support internally to deal with certain situation.

“His character and the way he approaches problems and the way he is willing to improve as a player, and as a person and to change things, he deserves all the credit.”

The Gunners will hope that they continue to get the best out of their experienced midfielder as they fight to secure that prestigious fourth place ahead of Tottenham and Manchester United.