Jamie Redknapp Urges Arteta to Play Eze in Central Role Against Newcastle

Jamie Redknapp urges Mikel Arteta to unleash Eberechi Eze in a central role against Newcastle, believing it could unlock Arsenal’s attacking potential.

Arsenal face a vital Premier League clash with Newcastle United this weekend, and all eyes are on Mikel Arteta’s midfield setup. Former Liverpool star and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp has urged Arteta to deploy Eberechi Eze in a central role, rather than out wide, where the summer signing has often been used.

Eze delivered a standout display during Arsenal’s Carabao Cup victory over Port Vale. Playing in a left No.8 role, he scored his first goal for the club and impressed with his creativity and ball progression—qualities the Gunners have lacked in recent weeks.

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Speaking on Sky Sports after the match, Redknapp said:

“He’s a fantastic player and I’d prefer to see him play more central. I think if you asked him, he’d say that’s where he’d want to play.”

Arteta’s Tactical Dilemma

Arteta usually relies on a midfield trio of Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice, and Martin Zubimendi. However, with Ødegaard only just returning from injury and rotation affecting the squad, the Arsenal boss has room to experiment.

On Eze’s development, Arteta admitted:

“He’s very capable with the ball… He still needs a little more time with those guys to understand the timings. In general, very good – there is still a lot more to give.”

Some, like former Arsenal defender Nigel Winterburn, believed Eze was signed to challenge Gabriel Martinelli on the wing. But with Martinelli in fine form, Eze’s natural central instincts make him a stronger option in midfield. His Carabao Cup performance only strengthens calls for Arteta to move him into the middle.

What’s at Stake Against Newcastle

Arsenal’s trip to St. James’ Park is a crucial test of Arteta’s flexibility and willingness to adapt his system. With pundits and fans pushing for a bolder approach, deploying Eze in a central role could be the key to breaking down Newcastle’s defense and sparking Arsenal’s attack.

Whether Arteta listens to Redknapp’s advice remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Eberechi Eze looks ready to make his mark—especially from the heart of midfield.

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