Ex-Arsenal defender William Gallas says William Saliba could still improve by adding goals to his game.
Gallas already thinks that the 23-year-old is the best centre-back in the Premier League but, speaking to Genting Casino, he suggested that Saliba could start scoring for the Gunners on a more regular basis:
“I saw him play for Arsenal in their last friendly against Lyon and he scored. If he could add goals to his game, then I think he would go to an even higher level. In fact, that is the one part of his game where you could say there is room for improvement. Sometimes you need your centre-back to pop up with a crucial goal from a set-piece in tight games. That is an important attribute to have. Tight game, 0-0, corner goes in and BANG!”
“My challenge to him would be to score some goals this season. He is such a consistent player for someone that is still only 23. He doesn’t make mistakes. To do what he has done over the last few years is special and he keeps getting better and better.”
Saliba’s goal record for Arsenal
The centre-back has scored just 5 times in 83 appearances for the Gunners, with 2 of those coming in the Premier League last season. He hits the back of the net on average every 0.06 matches.
In contrast, Saliba‘s partner at the back, Gabriel, has scored 15 over the course of his Arsenal career, which means he averages a goal every 0.09 games.
Gallas is right to keep demanding more
Fans should be content with Saliba’s current level of performance. He has been outstanding for the Gunners over the past two years, but every player should be looking to add things to their game.
While Saliba does not have many weaknesses, Gallas is correct that scoring from set-pieces is an area which the defender could improve.
