Arsenal Defender Takehiro Tomiyasu Has Theory Why Teammate Ben White Doesn't Pass To Him

Arsenal full-back Takehiro Tomiyasu has spoken about suspicions that teammate Ben White does not pass to him.

The 23-year-old Japanese defender, who joined the Gunners from Bologna for a reported £19.8 million, has become a regular under Mikel Arteta this season, making a total of 13 Premier League appearances.

He has certainly established himself as Arsenal's first-choice right-back since arriving in the summer but one thing fans did pick up during the early stages of his stay in North London was his contribution in build-up play - in particular with Ben White.

Reddit user u/snow_pocket points out it was 'noticeable' that the England international wouldn't pass to Tomiyasu in build-up play from the back; an observation that became a huge topic of debate in Japan.

Some fans even came to the conclusion that White didn't trust Tomiyasu in the first few games.

Image credit: PA

The former Bologna defender has now spoken about the debate when appearing on a recent talk show with DAZN Japan.

As transcribed by u/snow_pocket, Tomiyasu said: "Tanaka Ao (player of Fortuna Düsseldorf and Japan national team) also asked me about that, and the two of us came to the conclusion that it is because Ben White is a good player.

"Often, passes from the centre back to the full-backs become "pressure passes" (in which you get caught by the opponent's press and risk being dispossessed).

"I play centre back too, and simple passes to the side backs are actually the last option I consider.

"If the full-back is in an interchanging position (with a player facing him) I will play the pass, but if the winger is right in front, you'll end up caught by the press.

"So we came to the conclusion that Ben White is a good player who doesn't play passes that put you under pressure."

Tomiyasu clearly feels White knows what the best option is. The centre-back will often look to transition play up the field rather than out wide and into his feet to avoid hurried decisions.

Thoughts on Arsenal's performances at the back of late?

Do you think Tomiyasu has been a great piece of business for the Gunners since his arrival?

Let us know in the comments.

Topics: Football, Transfers, Ben White, Premier League, Arsenal, Japan

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare is a writer at SPORTbible. He's interviewed some of the biggest names in sport, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pele, Carles Puyol and Tim Henman. He dabbles in all things sport but football is his biggest passion. He was once hit in the head by a wayward strike from Nicky Butt and lived to tell the tale.

@jackkenmare_