Takehiro Tomiyasu determined to put injury hell behind him for Arsenal's title run-in
Takehiro Tomiyasu is determined to put his injury hell behind him by becoming part of the defence that gets Arsenal over the line in the title race.
The Japan international returned from the Asian Cup at the start of February with a calf problem and he was unable to start a game for Arsenal until the middle of last month.
The Gunners have been carefully managing Tomiyasu’s workload to keep him fit and he trained indoors on Tuesday ahead of Sunday’s trip to Old Trafford.
The defender has been able to start the last three matches for Arsenal and he is hoping to keep his spot at left-back for the final two games of the season.
Arsenal are currently top of the Premier League and one point clear of Manchester City, but Pep Guardiola’s side have a game in hand.
“The two centre-backs, Gabi and [William] Saliba, they are so consistent - and so is Ben [White] as well,” Tomiyasu said.
“We have had a lot of clean sheets because of them. I want to be part of that [defence]. We will try to get another clean sheet at Old Trafford as well.
“Obviously it won’t be an easy game because it is a tough place to play and take three points. But we are confident and we will be there to get three points.
“If we win the title, we will be happy. I don’t want anything else, we just want the title. For me, there has not been many chances to be involved in this title race, so I am happy I am involved now. If there is a chance in front of us, we have to go for it and take it.”
Tomiyasu has performed well when fit this season and he was rewarded with a new contract in March.
The defender was delighted to extend his stay with the club and hopes his injury troubles are behind hm.
“It was tough for me [being injured] because, after we lost in the Asian Cup, I wanted to play,” said Tomiyasu.
“I wanted to play immediately after that because other players from the national team who lost in the Asian Cup were playing.
“But it is what it is. I am available to play now and this is the most important period of the season.
“I am happy on the pitch and I hope I can help the team. I will give everything for the team and just enjoy this moment.”
