Sterling ready for a surprise role as Arsenal face Tottenham

Arsenal star Raheem Sterling is unfazed by the possibility of being asked by coach Mikel Arteta to play as a false nine, GIVEMESPORT sources reveal.

Riccardo Calafiori remains the Gunners’ most expensive signing of the summer transfer window, costing up to £42 million from Serie A’s Bologna, but Arsenal actively sought reinforcements until the very last deadline. Sterling’s arrival came too late for him to feature in the draw against Brighton, but the player on loan from Chelsea could be ready to step into the starting lineup against Tottenham.

According to GMS sources, Sterling is very open about his position at Arsenal in their bid for the Premier League title, and insiders have indicated that he would be more than willing to play as a false nine in the North London derby. Central midfielder Declan Rice received his first career red card in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton, meaning Arteta is heading into the Spurs game with at least one change in the starting lineup. If Merino and Gabriel Jesus are unavailable, GMS sources have revealed that the Spanish tactician is considering the idea of moving Kai Havertz into midfield and letting Sterling lead the attack.

Sterling’s average stats per 90 minutes in the Premier League compared to Kai Havertz show little difference, with Sterling even outperforming his counterpart in several areas. In shot-creating actions, Sterling averages 4.16 per game, surpassing Havertz’s 2.93. He also shoots more frequently (2.55) than the German star (2.40). Sterling averages 1.70 key passes per 90 minutes, compared to Havertz’s 1.30. Their shots on target are nearly identical, with 1.00 for Sterling and 1.02 for Havertz. However, Sterling holds a higher average in goals per game (0.40 – 0.35) and assists (0.21 – 0.15). The Englishman embarks on a new challenge at the Emirates Stadium after being dropped by Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca despite having a £350,000-per-week contract. He is eager to make his mark and has no objections to playing out of his preferred position.

The last-minute deal has secured favorable terms for Arsenal, with no loan fee and the club only covering half of his wages. Sterling, who has scored 123 goals in his Premier League career, has the potential to shine even if deployed in a surprise role against Tottenham Hotspur later this month. All of these factors make this an extremely attractive signing for the Gunners.