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‘What a big player he can be’: Frank Lampard raves about ‘top’ Arsenal ace ahead of FA Cup final
Arsenal defender David Luiz has been praised by Chelsea manager Frank Lampard, who rubbished suggestions that the Gunners defender is a “weak link” for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Luiz was an £8million signing from the Blues last August, replacing then Arsenal club captain Laurent Koscielny, who joined Bordeaux the previous day.
Some of the Brazilian’s performances this season have come under major scrutiny, none more so than against Manchester City in the Gunners’ first game back after the Premier League restart.
However, Luiz has been impressive following his return from suspension and Arteta’s switch to a back three, during which time he also signed fresh terms with the Emirates Stadium side.
The 33-year-old was especially superb in Arsenal’s FA Cup semi-final triumph over Manchester City, the opposition players simply unable to get past him or through him.
With the Gunners locking horns with Chelsea at Wembley on Saturday for the right to lift the trophy, Lampard was very complimentary of his former Blues teammate.
When asked by whether Luiz was a weak link for Arsenal, he replied: “No, absolutely not.
“I have huge respect for David, he was a top player in our 2012 campaign and I know what a big player he can be for Arsenal.”
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While some of Luiz’s performances have left a lot to be desired this term, he does do well in a back three, and since Arsenal have begun playing 3-4-3, both player and team have improved massively, as seen by their progress to the FA Cup final.
Support for the Selecao ace in the Arsenal camp is high – as well as Arteta praising his player on numerous occasions, it was also notable that Bukayo Saka cited the veteran’s support as a key factor in his recent development when he signed his new contract.
With Arsenal boasting a strong XI and playing great football offensively and defensively, and Luiz one of the key components of this setup, the Gunners have a great chance of giving Arteta his first trophy as manager, and moving forward next season too.