Switzerland international Granit Xhaka has said that he has forgotten about the bust-up with the Arsenal fans during the first half of the season. The midfielder was stripped from the captaincy after the incident in October and it appeared that he could head through the exit door at the beginning of the year.
Xhaka’s agent personally confirmed that Hertha Berlin were interested in a mid-season deal for the midfielder but that did not happen after manager Mikel Arteta convinced him to stay. Since then, Xhaka has been one of the Gunners’ top performers from the centre of the park and his displays have brought about a positive reaction from the majority of the fans, who were disgusted with his reaction earlier in the season.
Speaking to a Swiss outlet, Xhaka has insisted that he does not like to ponder over the past and he is focused on the job ahead with the club, he told: “I’m someone who looks ahead and doesn’t ponder the past for long. For me, it’s done. I’m trying to help the team with professionalism and hard work as a leader on the pitch. We had a very good and long conversation early on in which he made it clear to me how much he relies on me and the important role he had for me in his game. I learn from him ever day, he makes me even better.”
The Gunners have brought themselves back into the Champions League hunt with three league wins on the bounce. They are currently within five points off a potential Champions League spot for next season with a game in hand. Arsenal won’t be in Premier League action this month after the halt due to the COVID-19 virus. They could face Norwich City at home on April 4, provided there are no more complications.