Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has hailed Arsenal’s Gabriel as a “colossus” and the most vital player in the Premier League, tipping the defender to win PFA Player of the Year if the Gunners secure the title.
Following Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday, which extended their league lead to four points, Carragher singled out the Brazilian centre-back for his immense impact at both ends of the pitch.
“I think Gabriel is the most influential player in the Premier League right now,” Carragher stated on Sky Sports. “He’s a colossus at the back and the leader for that team.”
The pundit highlighted Gabriel’s role in orchestrating a defence that has conceded a remarkable only three goals in 13 matches, noting that he has risen above partner William Saliba.
Crucially, Carragher pointed to Gabriel’s dual threat, calling him “the best defender in the team that’s got the best defensive numbers and he’s the best attacker in terms of set-pieces.”
Carragher concluded that Gabriel is the “number one contender” for the PFA Player of the Year award, provided Mikel Arteta’s side ends their 21-year wait for a Premier League trophy this season.
