Arsenal boss Arteta set to unleash "extraordinary" player against Sporting Lisbon
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Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior is set to be handed his senior club debut for Thursday's Europa League clash against Sporting Lisbon, according to reports in Poland.
The 22-year-old centre-back, who played all four games for Poland at the World Cup, joined the Gunners from Spezia in January.
He was brought in to provide competition for Gabriel for the left-sided centre-back role, although is yet to make a senior appearance for the side.
Kiwior has, however, featured on the bench for every game he has been available for, and has played reserve games as he looks to maintain his match fitness.
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But it appears that the defender, described as 'extraordinary' by compatriot and legendary striker Robert Lewandowski, looks set to get his opportunity against Sporting.
Arsenal set to start 'extraordinary' player vs Sporting
According to Polish outlet Meczyki, Kiwior will make his competitive debut for Arsenal against Sporting at the Jose Alvalade Stadium on Thursday evening.
Arsenal could make changes for the clash, with a Premier League fixture against Fulham on Sunday on the horizon.
It appears that Kiwior will be one of the beneficiaries of any rotation policy, with the Pole set to make his first appearance in any competition since Spezia's 5-2 defeat to Atalanta in the Coppa Italia on January 19.
Speaking about his current situation in an interview with the Polish FA after the 3-2 win over Bournemouth, Kiwior said (quotes via Daily Mirror): "What does Mikel Arteta pay attention to? I think he pays attention to everything.
"I thought that if we were leading by two or three goals I would get a chance, however, I am waiting patiently. Everyone would like to play."
After his signing was confirmed, Arteta told the club's official website: "It's great that Jakub is joining us. He's a young versatile defender who has shown huge potential and qualities with Spezia in Serie A, and also at international level with Poland.
"Jakub is a player who will give us strength and quality to our defensive unit."
Featured Image Credit: Alamy / Arsenal Football Club
Topics: Arsenal, Europa League, Sporting Lisbon, Sporting CP, Mikel Arteta
