"I find Granit Xhaka confrontational, overly aggressive and altogether irritating"

Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka has been reborn this season, but BBC Sport pundit Garth Crooks still isn't a fan.

The 29-year-old captained the Gunners to a 3-0 victory over Brentford on Sunday afternoon and it's completed a remarkable turnaround.

Xhaka has gone on to become an important part of Arteta's team and now plays a box to box role, rather than as a holding midfielder.

He's still got his doubters though. Crooks called Xhaka's performance at the Gtech Community Stadium 'very impressive' before admitting he flat out doesn't like him.

"Nevertheless, on his day he’s a very good player. He should have left Arsenal years ago.

"However, for some reason he has not only stayed at the club, but also occasionally wears the captain’s armband, such is his popularity these days.

"I would like to know why Brentford didn’t look up for this game, but the Gunners were so good I rather suspect that even if they had it wouldn’t have changed anything – Arsenal were that good. Most worrying."

In a message posted to Instagram, Xhaka said: "Hey guys, Granit here. Great win, great result, thanks for your support.

"You’ve been amazing but as well for myself to hear what happened today, to say my name, to sing the song for me.

"It’s a very, very special day and thank you again, see you soon. All the best guys."

Arsenal go into the international break top of the league, one point clear of champions Manchester City and bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur.