Ikpeba on why Arsenal missed out on top four; labels Tottenham striker Son 'magical'

Retired Nigeria international Victor Ikpeba has revealed that Arsenal squandered their chance of finishing in the Champions League positions after suffering three successive defeats in April and losing a six-pointer to Tottenham Hotspur.

Defeat to Newcastle United in the penultimate round of fixtures in the Premier League meant Arsenal's hopes of playing in next season's Champions League all but disappeared heading into the final day of the season, and it also highlighted a massive weakness in the squad.

The Gunners lacked leadership after losing their captain, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang midway through the season.

Speaking on SuperSport's Monday Night Football, monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com, Ikpeba said : "Arsenal had a chance to be in the top four, they didn't take their chances.

"If Arsenal had not lost three in a row, they later lost two including to their rivals Tottenham Hotspur, it was in the hands of Arsenal."

Ikpeba went on to highlight that Son Heung-min was the unsung hero for Tottenham Hotspur in their Champions League qualification and labeled the South Korea forward 'magical'.

"Spurs had their moments and end the season in the top four.

"Son has been magical and people are not celebrating him in England, it's shocking because his goals transformed the Spurs side back to form.

"Together with Kane the partnership, they have been very brilliant together.

"It is not surprising that Spurs thrashed Norwich City, it's one of the worst sides we have seen so far this season.

"I'm a big fan of Son and underrated sometimes in England but what a player he is."

The Premier League Golden Boot award was shared between Son Heung-min and Mohamed Salah after both players ended the 2021-2022 season on 23 goals.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : tottenhamhotspur.com

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