Sokratis philosophy is to support Xhaka

ARSENAL centre-back Sokratis has defended Granit Xhaka after some supporters lashed out at his appointment as captain.

Xhaka also copped serious flak for appearing to duck under the ball as Scott McTominay’s strike flew into the net during Monday’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United.

But Sokratis insists the Swiss midfielder is the right choice as skipper. He said: “I think Granit and all of the other players work really hard for the team.

“Granit has been here a lot of years so I don’t see why he shouldn’t be the captain.”

Gunners boss Unai Emery let his squad vote for the players they wanted on a five-man leadership group and Xhaka ended up top dog. Critics have attacked the idea of a vote for five different captains, with former Arsenal great Paul Merson calling it “pathetic”.

❑ MATT RITCHIE is losing the race to be fit for Newcastle’s clash with Manchester United at St James’ Park on Sunday. Ritchie, right, suffered a setback in his recovery from ankle damage sustained in late August and Sunday’s game will come too soon for him.

XHAKA