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Ben White won the man of the match award on Wednesday evening as Arsenal restored their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League following a 2-0 win over Brentford
Ben White believes Arsenal have landed a real gem in Noni Madueke. The right-back, who made his first Premier League appearance since the opening day victory at Manchester United in midweek, knows Bukayo Saka like the back of his hand.
White's chemistry with Saka on the Arsenal right was once irresistible, however, he now appreciates the quality of Madueke after the pair combined to engineer Mikel Merino's opener against Brentford.
"He's come to the team and it's no different than playing with Bukayo [Saka]. So it was nice to get out there and win and play," White said.
The former Brighton and Leeds defender claimed an assist, clean sheet and the man of the match award on Wednesday evening to swat the Bees and provide a timely reminder of his quality ahead of the gruelling festive schedule.
While Arsenal, who are now unbeaten in their last 18 matches in all competitions, are currently light on the ground at the back due to injuries, White offers both versatility and reliability.
He continued after winning more duels (10) and more tackles (six) than any other player on the field: "It was nice. Obviously, three points are the most important thing today. Last week was a big week and you need to follow up the following week, so it was really important to win."
White also shared his delight at hearing Arsenal supporters sing his name at the Emirates Stadium - a feeling he has not had for some time due to fitness problems and Jurrien Timber's commendable consistency.
The 28-year-old concluded: "Amazing. It's like any game that we win, it's so important for us and we're just going to take it game by game. I've missed it. Obviously, I had quite a long time out. I had a few issues with my knee. So it was nice to get it done tonight."
Arsenal travel to Aston Villa on Saturday lunchtime and Unai Emery's side could launch themselves into Premier League title contention if they're to beat the Gunners.
Victory would take them within three points of the top-flight leaders, though both sides will only have one training session prior to the contest as they were in action on Wednesday night.
Mikel Arteta's side are waiting to discover the extent of Cristhian Mosquera's injury after he limped off in the first half against the Bees.
Timber slotted in at right centre-back and if William Saliba is unable to prove his fitness in time to face Villa, White could be handed another start.
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