Add as preferred source on Google

Kevin Campbell has claimed he thinks Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes will be back in the starting XI tonight against Villarreal, explaining his pace is going to be a big help.

The Gunners face Spanish opposition Villarreal on Thursday night in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final tie.

With the north London club struggling down in 10th in the Premier League table, all their eggs are in the Europa League basket to try salvage something from a disappointing campaign.

Gabriel, 23, is someone that Arsenal-supporting pundit Campbell believes will be restored to the side tonight due to the fact his pace could combat the dangerous opposition.

However, it’s worth pointing out that the Brazilian centre-back has started just two of the last five games across all competitions as he struggles to nail down a position in Mikel Arteta’s XI.

“I personally think he’s going to play Gabriel,” Campbell told the Highbury Squad.

“[Villarreal] stretch you and we are going to need some speed at the back/ What Samuel Chukwueze does from the right is he makes that run across the back four and in. If you haven’t got somebody quick enough to go with him, we are going to be in trouble.”

TBR’s View:

Gabriel, who is a left-footed centre-half, has looked a quality player at times during his first season at the Emirates Stadium.

There is uncertainty around the centre-back position right now and he’s competing alongside the likes of Rob Holding, Pablo Mari and David Luiz for a starting position.

If he gets the nod to start tonight, it will be a big sign of faith from manager Arteta to play him in the biggest game of the season so far.