Alan Shearer names Arsenal star Premier League Player of the season so far

Alan Shearer has named Ezri Konsa as his Premier League Player of the Season so far, praising the defender's outstanding performances for Arsenal and the impact he has made since arriving at the Emirates Stadium. The former Newcastle United striker believes Konsa's contribution has been so significant that Arsenal have barely been troubled by the absence of William Saliba, who spent an extended period on the sidelines with a back injury.

Konsa's arrival was initially viewed as a solution to Arsenal's defensive shortage during Saliba's absence. However, the England international has quickly established himself as an important member of Mikel Arteta's side, creating an unexpected selection dilemma ahead of the Frenchman's return.

Shearer singles out Konsa for outstanding Arsenal displays Speaking via the Metro, Shearer explained why he believes Konsa has been the standout performer in the Premier League this season. "I think the player of the season up to now has been Ezri Konsa," he said, as quoted by Just Arsenal.

"I just think when you look at the performances of Arsenal defensively, and look at his performances defensively, we haven't even really mentioned them missing William Saliba. The only time we've mentioned him is in the last two weeks and that's because everyone is thinking how is he going to get back in because Konsa has been that good.

Shearer's assessment highlights the consistency of Arsenal's defensive performances throughout Saliba's absence. Rather than suffering a significant drop in quality without the Frenchman, Arteta's side have continued to look organised and difficult to break down.

Konsa has played a major role in maintaining those standards, quickly building an understanding with his defensive colleagues and giving Arsenal another dependable option at the heart of their backline."