‘Pick of the bunch’: BBC pundit in awe of Arsenal 21-year-old at Chelsea, says he’s a ‘must’ for Qatar

Add as preferred source on Google

Garth Crooks has included Arsenal’s William Saliba in his latest team of the week for the BBC and insisted he must go to Qatar with France.

Saliba is likely to be selected in and among a top quality France side going to Qatar. They are one of the pre-tournament favourites, and Saliba is part of the reason why.

Since returning from Marseille in the summer, the 21-year-old has been outstanding for Mikel Arteta. And writing up his latest team of the week, Crooks believes Saliba was the pick of three Arsenal defenders at Chelsea.

“There was only one team winning this London derby and it was Arsenal. If anyone is in any doubt about how seriously the Gunners are taking their Premier League title challenge then you only have to take a good look at the way they celebrated their victory after the game away at Chelsea,” Crooks said.

“This was a statement if ever there was one. Saliba, Gabriel and Ben White looked as solid as a rock with Saliba looking the pick of the bunch. This kid is a must for France’s World Cup squad.”

Saliba has become a mainstay of the Gunners’ back line. His partnership with Gabriel has been lauded, while Englishman White continues to excel at right-back.

TBR’s View: Saliba team of the week selection justified again

This isn’t the first time for Saliba and it won’t be the last when it comes to teams of the week. The Frenchman is simply brilliant and it’s no wonder there was excitement about him at Arsenal.

The Gunners have managed his situation to perfection really. A few loan spells and then bring him back when they know he’s ready. It’s worked out a treat.

Saliba has very much been like a new signing for Arsenal and Gunners fans will be delighted with what they’re seeing.