Takehiro Tomiyasu’s excellent displays during October have seen our supporters vote him as our men's Player of the Month.
The Japanese defender made some telling contributions during his five appearances, which were recognised by our Gooners as he polled 64 per cent of the votes to be our runaway winner, ahead of Declan Rice, Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka.
It is Tomi’s first monthly prize since September 2021, and it is fully merited for his efforts in helping us remain undefeated in the Premier League this term, as well as moving to the top of our Champions League group at the halfway stage.
The full-back played all 180 minutes of our two European games out in Lens and Seville, and as well as a fine performance in our backline out in Spain to help us to an important victory, his three substitute appearances in the Premier League were where he really made an impact.
Coming off the bench for the final 15 minutes against Manchester City, he played a key role in Gabriel Martinelli’s late winner as he pushed upfield, and was again instrumental when introduced at half-time against Chelsea and helped us recover from 2-0 down to earn a late point.
Then, on his 50th Premier League appearance, he found the net for the first time in red and white in the dying stages of our 5-0 success over Sheffield United on Saturday to round off October in style.
As well as his goal, Tomi also recorded four interceptions during his 264 minutes of play, as well as 12 recoveries. He also won eight duels, and made 149 successful passes as he proved to be an influential figure at both ends of the pitch.
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