Takehiro Tomiyasu picks up clean sheet for Japan in 5-0 win vs Syria

Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu registered a clean sheet for Japan during their convincing 5-0 win over Syria in a World Cup qualifier yesterday.

The 25-year-old has been a key player for the Gunners this campaign. He started the season on the bench but became a regular starter before the November international break.

Tomiyasu has generally played as a full-back during his time at Arsenal, but he is a central defender for his national side. He started in the left centre-back role against Syria.

The Japanese had a comfortable game with no shots on target from the hosts. He had 65 touches and completed 57 out of his 60 passes with an accuracy of 95 per cent.

The defender made two clearances and won two duels alongside one tackle. Tomiyasu played only 77 minutes for Japan during the break which should please Arsenal fans.

Tomiyasu has key role to play for the Gunners

The former Bologna man was hampered by injuries during the back end of the last two seasons. He missed the final two months last term following a knee surgery.

He has stayed unscathed during the current campaign. His workload has been carefully managed and he is currently enjoying the best phase of his Arsenal career.

Tomiyasu recently displaced Oleksandr Zinchenko at left-back for a couple of outings. Against Burnley, he replaced the injured Ben White in the right-back position.

His versatility is obviously a huge plus for the Gunners. Manager Mikel Arteta could also utilise him from the left centre-back role, suppose he wants any rotation.

Tomiyasu may not be available between January 12 and February due to the AFC Asian Cup. There are plenty of games to come prior to that and he has a key part to play.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com