“Mikel Makes It Simple For You” – Ben White On Adjusting To Inverted Right-Back Role

By The Editor
on 2nd March 2024

Ben White has adapted seamlessly to tactical tweak…

Arsenal defender Ben White expressed the simplicity in adjusting to the tactical tweak made by Mikel Arteta in recent weeks with right-back now inverting into midfield, he told The Guardian.

With the team lacking defensive options due to the absence of Oleksandr Zinchenko, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jurrien, Arteta only has four realistic options to choose from.

It has meant an extensive run in the side for Jakub Kiwior at left-back and after his audition in the ‘Zinchenko role’ went horribly wrong at Fulham, Arteta has been forced to make some tweaks.

The role of an inverted full-back has been switched to the right, with Kiwior now asked to tuck in as a third central defender when Arsenal are in possession.

It has allowed White to take inspiration from his time at Leeds Utd when the 26-year-old occasionally operated in midfield. For the former Brighton man, adjusting to the manager’s wishes has been smooth due to the information given to him.

“It wasn’t really a conversation – there were just a lot of instructions of where I need to be, when I need to be there,” White explained.

“When you have Mikel as your manager it is quite easy as he makes it simple for you. I think most of the players could play in that position, because the key if you want to play for Arsenal is that you have got to be so technically gifted, strong and fast. Most of the players could do it.”

White has been back to his reliable best since the winter break in January after Arteta revealed that the England international was carrying a knock for some time.

With Thomas Partey now back from injury and the aforementioned defensive trio also nearing match fitness, Arteta will now have more options in the back line.