Luis De la Fuente backs Martin Zubimendi after Arsenal right-back outing | OneFootball

Luis De la Fuente has backed Martin Zubimendi, keeping the Arsenal midfielder in Spain’s first squad since winning the World Cup this summer despite his limited club minutes.

According to Diario Vasco, he has logged fewer than 60 Premier League minutes to date and was used at right-back by Mikel Arteta in the League Cup tie with Ipswich Town.

De la Fuente noted that the right-back outing showed Zubimendi is in strong physical and footballing shape, while the competition for places at Arsenal is fierce.

He said Spain have known him for years, that he has not let them down, and that he delivers what is asked, which gives the staff calm and confidence to keep selecting him.

The Spain coach reiterated his view that Rodrigo is the best in Zubimendi’s position and Martin the second, a belief he maintains. With four matches in 10 days in the upcoming window, Zubimendi could feature in his usual role at some stage.

Source: Diario Vasco

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”