Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has claimed that "phenomenal" midfielder Mohamed Elneny is one of the most important players in the Gunners squad.
The Egypt international has been a bit-part player for the North London club this term but produced an assured midfield display in Wednesday's 4-2 Premier League win against Chelsea.
Elneny is expected to leave the club when his deal expires at the end of the season, but Arteta believes that the 29-year-old does not always get the credit his performances deserve.
"I say that for me he's one of the most important players in the squad. He's a phenomenal person and as well a great footballer that sometimes gets overlooked," Arteta told the press ahead of Saturday's clash with Manchester United.
With Thomas Partey expected to miss the rest of the season due to a thigh injury, Elneny - who has started just twice in the Premier League this term - will aim to keep his place against the Red Devils.
Arteta also provided a positive injury update on Takehiro Tomiyasu as Arsenal aim to move six points clear of Man United in the Premier League table.
Ben Knapton
