EPL: Arsenal Need Intelligent English Players – Pires

Former Arsenal attacker, Robert Pires, has called on manager Unai Emery to sign intelligent English players to help the team.

Naija News reports that Arsenal are eight points off Champions League places after 12 fixtures, with only four wins on their record to date,

Emery has seen his position linked with various managers as the Gunners continue to falter in the English Premier League (EPL).

The Gunners manager has come under criticism over his tactics and selection policy, notably his decision to play Lucas Torreira in a more advanced position.

Speaking to The Athletic, Pires said: “The team needs so many ingredients in the squad. Physical, technical, some players with intelligence. Of course, we need leadership – and we need English players.

“We need English players because we are in England and nobody else has grown up with this mentality.

“You need to be born here. It’s very nice when you get to discover new countries but for me when you play in England you need English players.

“It’s a different time. But I used to play with David Seaman, Lee Dixon, Tony Adams, Martin Keown, Ashley Cole, Ray Parlour… We’re talking about six English players in the team. We need similar players.

“Of course I respect the Arsenal philosophy but we are in the Premier League and it’s so tough every weekend.”