Kevin Campbell baffled by Ainsley Maitland-Niles’ absence for Arsenal

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Kevin Campbell has told Highbury Squad that he cannot understand why Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is reluctant to use Ainsley Maitland-Niles in the Premier League.

Maitland-Niles was a standout performer for the Gunners last Thursday in the Europa League. It was a small reminder of the outstanding form that he showed towards the end of last season.

However, he has been on the periphery in the top flight. He has started just two times in the league, while he has made a further three appearances from the bench.

Despite his superb display in midweek, he was not given the chance to add to his tally at the weekend. The 23-year-old was an unused substitute in the North London derby.

And while Campbell suggested that he could understand why Arteta is not using some of the Europa League regulars in the league, he insisted that the boss’ stance on Maitland-Niles has baffled him.

“I think the crazy one for everyone, me included, is Maitland-Niles,” he told Highbury Squad. “What’s happened to Maitland-Niles? Why can’t he even get in the team? He played brilliantly against Vienna the other day. He was excellent in the centre of the pitch.

“We’ve seen him do a job at left-back, centre midfield and right-back. But he doesn’t even get a chance in the team. That I can’t understand.”

There does look to be an opportunity for Maitland-Niles, who earns £35,000-a-week, according to Spotrac. The North London derby saw Hector Bellerin come in for a lot of criticism at right-back. Meanwhile, Thomas Partey limped off due to injury.

So there may be openings in two of the positions where Maitland-Niles is in contention. And if he can impress once again in the Europa League this week, Arteta may be asking for further trouble should he continue to overlook him.