Former England international Chris Waddle believes Ezri Konsa is currently the best defender in the country, backing the Arsenal centre-back to become a cornerstone of Thomas Tuchel’s national team.
Konsa has impressed since joining Mikel Arteta’s side, establishing himself as an important figure in an Arsenal defence that continues to set the standard in the Premier League.
Speaking exclusively to iGaming.com, Waddle praised the defender’s performances and believes England should build around him as they prepare for their upcoming Nations League fixtures.
Best in the country
“Ezri Konsa is definitely the best defender in the country at the moment,” Waddle said.
The former England winger also highlighted the competition for places at Arsenal, with William Saliba working his way back into contention after injury.
Waddle believes the Frenchman is too talented to remain out of the starting XI, potentially leaving Arteta with a difficult decision over how to accommodate his defenders.
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Saliba inclusion
“Saliba is too good not to be in the team, and if he isn’t in the team, he’d be thinking he needs to move on,” he explained.
With Gabriel Magalhaes occupying the left-sided centre-back position, Waddle suggested Konsa could be moved to right-back to accommodate Saliba, although he also believes the French defender is capable of playing in that role.
The former Tottenham winger added that Arsenal’s defensive strength has been central to their success, with Arteta benefiting from the quality and versatility available across his backline.
Arsenal and England’s cornerstone
“Whoever Arsenal plays at the back, the players seem to get a lot of credit, and that is because they have the meanest defence in Europe,” he said.
Konsa’s performances have also strengthened his position with England, having been included in Tuchel’s latest squad for the matches against Croatia and Spain.
Waddle believes the defender can become a key figure for the national team, describing him as the foundation for England’s defensive future.
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