The Switzerland international received scathing criticism for his aggressive behavior in a match that led to a three-game ban.
Granit Xhaka was one of the standout performers from Arsenal’s 3-1 win over Chelsea on Boxing Day.
The 28-year-old midfielder scored a stunning free-kick as he helped his side register a first victory in seven Premier League games.
Saturday’s outing marked his first appearance for the Gunners since December 13. The player was handed a three-match ban for grabbing Ashley Westwood by the throat in the 1-0 defeat to Burnley.
Xhaka also refused to publicly apologize for the incident, due to which he came under heavy criticism with many even calling for him to be dropped ahead of the derby.
“There was a lot of speaking after the red card. A lot of people started speaking again… and again and again,” he said, via Evening Standard. “I will always show my character.
“I was very disappointed about my red card and I knew what I did was wrong for my side. But I am more than happy. I helped the team today and I am back.
“We got the three points back after dropping some in the past few weeks.
“We knew it would be a very difficult game, but I think we worked very well together today like a team and at the moment we can only get points if we do this.”
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