How Ezri Konsa became Arsenal’s ‘blessing’ in defence: The challenge Mikel Arteta set him to keep William Saliba out of the team, dressing-room impact and his excellent record against the world’s best strikers as he faces off with Harry Kane again

Ezri Konsa has seamlessly settled into Arsenal's defense following his £55 million summer transfer from Aston Villa, stepping in for the injured William Saliba. The 28-year-old center back has kept five clean sheets across his first nine appearances, including a crucial late tackle to secure a 1-0 victory against Nottingham Forest on Sunday. Manager Mikel Arteta has privately challenged Konsa to fight to keep his starting spot even as Saliba returns to training.

Konsa's strong start includes a 96.13 percent passing accuracy and leading Arsenal's defenders with eight interceptions. He also possesses a strong record against top strikers, having conceded only two penalties to Harry Kane in seven career meetings and one goal to Erling Haaland in six matches. Arsenal next face Kane and Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday.