Mikel Arteta is thrilled with Ainsley Maitland-Niles’ development but suggests he still has work to do before becoming a regular starter.
On Saturday, Ainsley Maitland-Niles learned that he has earned the opportunity to be a part of the England senior squad for the upcoming Nations League matches.
Maitland-Niles received the news of national call-up just after he had led Arsenal to Community Shield victory.
The 23-year old starred as he was extremely influential in keeping Liverpool at bay for most parts in the match. He was named the man of the match as Arsenal won on penalties.
His future has been a subject of debate as of late. He has been linked with a move away with Premier League sides Wolves and Newcastle United reportedly showing interest.
The versatile player, however, suggested that he is completely committed to Arsenal after the full-time whistle at Wembley on Saturday.
While heaping praise on him for his recent heroics, Mikel Arteta says he wants Maitland-Niles to perform more consistently.
“Has to be able to convince me every day in training that he can compete at this level – not once every three months but every three days,” said Arteta, as Goal reports.
“The way he’s playing at the moment shows me that he can do it. His mentality, the way he is going about every single detail for the preparation of a football game is much better than before.
“I’m delighted and very happy for him as he’s changing a lot of things around him to become the player that he can be.”
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