Danny Murphy reckons Granit Xhaka would be great for Premier League leaders Liverpool – but remains a liability in Arsenal’s side.
Xhaka was heavily criticised by Murphy for his performance during the Gunners’ 1-0 victory over Leeds in the FA Cup on Monday night.
Many felt the Swiss midfielder should’ve been sent off following a series of clumsy challenges, and Murphy made his feelings known on the BBC’s commentary.
However, the former England ace insists Xhaka has the technical ability to play for a top team, without any defensive responsibility.
He said on talkSPORT: “If Xhaka was in Liverpool’s side with [Jordan] Henderson and Fabinho he would look a hell of a player, because he is technically good, a good passer, has a great shot on him and he has the ability with his great left foot to open you up.
“But when you are playing in a team that is struggling a bit, he is a passenger defensively and a liability.
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“It is a dilemma for Mikel Arteta because he has a squad that needs a bit of tinkering.”
And Murphy, who received a backlash on social media for his criticism of Xhaka on Monday night, insists there is no personal agenda and he will continue to call what he sees.
He added: “I’ve been on at Xhaka for quite a while, I’ve dug him out a few times.
“I’m paid to comment on what I see. If you play in midfield, you can’t expect to keep making the same mistakes and not be criticised.
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“I can’t doubt his passion and his work ethic. Like all of the Arsenal players, he was very good second-half.
“But when you run around headless and you don’t think about what you’re doing, you’re going to keep getting booked and you’re going to be a liability for your team.
“He was lucky to stay on the pitch and he doesn’t learn his lessons.”
