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Arsene Wenger doesn't rate Granit Xhaka's tackling ability

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that midfielder Granit Xhaka isn't "naturally a great ...



Arsene Wenger doesn't rate...
Soccer

Arsene Wenger doesn't rate Granit Xhaka's tackling ability

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that midfielder Granit Xhaka isn't "naturally a great tackler".

The Switzerland international's technique has come under scrutiny after his red card against Burnley on Sunday.

The midfielder's disciplinary record in the Bundesliga and now with Arsenal has been peppered with red cards and his lunging tackle against Burnley resulted in his second sending off of the campaign. He now has a four game ban to serve.

Wenger admits he is not convinced by the way Xhaka goes in for tackles.

"I think he’s not naturally a great tackler," said the Arsenal manager.

"In his decision making I think he is quite intelligent on the pitch. But it’s more the way he tackles that is not really convincing. He doesn’t master well the technique. I would encourage him not to tackle, to stay on his feet. Tackling is a technique that you learn at a young age. You can improve it but when you are face-to-face with somebody, it’s better you stay up."

Meanwhile, Wenger will accept a Football Association misconduct charge.

He pushed the fourth official after being sent from the touchline for an angry reaction late in Sunday's Premier League win over Burnley.

Wenger says he is a "passionate guy" and is "big enough" to accept his mistake.

"I’m big enough to know when I do well and when I do not do well. I am a passionate guy and I believe that I am completely committed in my job and want to win football games, like all the managers who work in the Premier League," said the Frenchman.

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