Mikel Arteta is reportedly preparing Ezri Konsa to operate at right-back if required, as Arsenal consider how to accommodate William Saliba following the defender’s return from injury.
Konsa has impressed since joining the Gunners from Aston Villa in the summer and has made a strong case to remain involved, despite Saliba being expected to reclaim his place when available.
The England international is primarily a centre-back, but Arsenal have been giving him additional training in the right-back position. Konsa has played there occasionally for Villa, although the work at Arsenal appears designed to make him more comfortable and effective in the role.
Ezri Konsa could have an important role for Arsenal
The positional adjustment would offer Arteta a way to keep Konsa in the starting line-up while also restoring Saliba to the centre of defence. It would follow a pattern seen previously at Arsenal, where Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori have adapted from central defence to become options at full-back.
Konsa’s versatility could prove particularly valuable with Jurrien Timber and White having struggled with injuries at different points this season. Arsenal would benefit if he could reproduce his performances at centre-back on the right side of the defence.
Even with Saliba returning, Konsa is still likely to receive opportunities in central defence during the campaign. Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes are unlikely to play every minute of Arsenal’s schedule between now and May, leaving room for Konsa to remain an important member of Arteta’s squad.
