Opinion : Arsenal should be taking a close look at Nigeria star regardless of Tierney's availability

Arsenal missed out on the top four qualification despite coming very close during the latter stages of the season.

The Emirates Stadium outfit will have to settle for Europa League football with their UEFA Champions League absence stretching to six years.

A lack of adequate depth and firepower affected the Gunners with the likes of Thomas Partey and Kieran Tierney suffering season-ending injuries.

Bukayo Saka, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Gabriel Magalhaes and Ben White also suffering from different injuries ranging from hamstring to ankle problems.

However, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has reiterated that he will be backed this summer in the transfer window which will be opening soon, and more additions will be made to the squad.

Given that the Gunners need depth and Nuno Tavares has been unconvincing, allnigeriasoccer.com recommends that they look at Nigeria defender Calvin Bassey for Kieran regardless of the Scotsman's availability.

The first key to becoming a world-class player is availability. Since his arrival, Tierney has always been unavailable at crucial times of the season. Bassey is very fit and didn't miss any games due to injury.

Arteta likes his full-backs to overlap and underlap effectively. Bassey is very good in both and can replace Tierney with no significant drop in quality regarding the offensive play.

Tierney is an excellent crosser with his out to in crosses creating numerous goalscoring chances.

However, Bassey has the qualities to rival Tierney in this regard. His friendly games against Mexico and Ecuador are a testament to this.

Bassey is also technically secure and will be able to participate very well in the build-up phases.

When Tierney becomes available after his recent injury, it should not disturb Arsenal from trying to sign Bassey.

Sofoluwe Mayowa

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