#full-backs

#full-backs

Arteta is often criticised for playing two centre-backs at full-back, in Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori. Of course, they don't actually function as centre-backs: though both have played there for their respective countries, the pair have license to roam in the final third and contribute massively to Arsenal's attack. By fielding full-backs who are capable of playing centre-back, though, the Gunners not only have a defensive base strong enough to platform their attack, they have two players who can build up in a back three.

They come inside the pitch and act like midfielders. So the right foot, left foot situation is not as important as if they were always playing on the outside. I wanted Konrad Laimer to be against [Brugge right winger Carlos Forbs], with the speed 1-v-1. It doesn't matter who plays on the left or right, it's quite easy for them to adapt.