Ian Wright identifies the ‘outstanding candidate’ for the Arsenal captaincy

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Ian Wright has told the Kelly & Wrighty Show that Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney is the “outstanding candidate” for the Arsenal captaincy. The Gunners are yet to announce a replacement for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Aubameyang, 32, was stripped of the captaincy earlier this week – after returning late from a trip to see his Mother. It is believed that he returned late. Of course, it is not the first time he has breached discipline as captain.

The Gabon skipper has since been missing from the wins over Southampton and West Ham. Mikel Arteta has confirmed that he will not be a part of the side that travels to Elland Road to take on Leeds on Saturday.

Asked who would be the best man to take over from Aubameyang, Gunners legend Wright thinks Tierney is perfect. He believes Tierney already ‘lambasts’ his teammates, and will be loved by his manager.

“Tierney is the outstanding candidate. He lambasts people, he plays and leads by example. Tierney has all the qualities, he is someone Mikel will love and respect. He will do exactly what the manager wants,” Wright said.

Arteta on Tierney: Is Arsenal defender the best option for Gunners?

The leadership group at Arsenal consists of Tierney, as well as the likes of Rob Holding, Alexandre Lacazette, Granit Xhaka and others. Holding hardly plays, while Xhaka has been captain beforehand.

Lacazette has worn the armband in the absence of Aubameyang. But his contract ends in 2022, meaning he could leave as soon as he gets the armband. So, Tierney could well be the best man for the job.

Aaron Ramsdale, Ben White and Gabriel should also be considered – but two of those are new signings. Tierney does seem to be the best option for the Gunners – if Arteta is to make a decision soon.

Of course, Tierney – who won five Scottish Premiership titles during his time at Celtic – learnt from one of the best in Scott Brown at Parkhead. He is a leader, and demands the best.