Charlie Nicholas still doubts Granit Xhaka has a future atArsenaldespite the Gunners captain issuing a statement following the ugly scenes that unfolded at the Emirates last weekend.
Xhaka faces a fight to remain Arsenal skipper after he clashed with his own supporters during thePremier Leaguedraw withCrystal Palaceon Sunday.
Breaking his silence on the incident, Xhaka admitted his reaction was wrong but said it was a result of the abuse he suffers on social media.
The statement appeared to be Xhaka’s first step towards saving his Arsenal career but Nicholas still doubts whether he will play for the club again.
‘We don’t actually know if he’ll ever play again. I genuinely don’t see it, ’the Gunners hero told Sky Sports.
‘If he’s still angry and still upset by the fans and the situation, I can only think that would eat away at him and make him think maybe it’s time to move on.
‘He’s been at the club for a few years, it’s not been the most successful period. There’s been stress and strain.
‘At the moment he’s part of the problem so I don’t think there’s any chance of him playing.
‘If anything he could play in the next Europa League game. But I can’t see him being that interested in playing with the way he feels at the moment. ’
Xhaka was left ‘devastated’ by the incident at the Emirates and was reported offered counselling by Arsenal who were concerned for his well-being.
The Switzerland international missed Arsenal’s dramatic Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool on Wednesday night but could return to the side on Saturday against Wolves.
The Gunners welcome Wolves to the Emirates searching for their first Premier League win in three matches and sitting fifth in the table.
********
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings