Lucas Torreira joined Arsenal from Sampdoria in the summer (Image: GETTY/BT SPORT)
That is according to BT Sport pundit and former Arsenal defender Martin Keown.
Torreira joined the Gunners from Sampdoria in the summer for a fee of around £26million.
The Uruguay international did not make his first Premier League start for the club until the 2-0 win over Everton on September 23 but has started the two games since.
Many Arsenal fans believe Torreira is the missing link they have been crying out for in the midfield.
Xhaka I think can then get on the ball a little bit and show some of the qualities that he has, instead of people giving him stick saying ‘well you can’t tackle’
Martin Keown on the effect of Lucas Torreira
Xhaka has often come under criticism by fans and pundits but Keown believes that was because the role he was playing did not suit him.
And ahead of today’s clash at Fulham, where the duo started, Keown said Torreira has helped improve the performances of Xhaka.
“Well he’s tenacious,” Keown said on Torreira.
“He’s going to cover (ground) and he’s going to give you the miles.
Martin Keown says Lucas Torreira helps get the best out of Granit Xhaka (Image: BT SPORT)
Lucas Torreira has started the last three Premier League games for Arsenal (Image: GETTY)
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“He’s going to play in that area that Arsenal adopt now. If they’re pushing up from behind it’s easier for the midfield players.
“Xhaka I think can then get on the ball a little bit and show some of the qualities that he has, instead of people giving him stick saying ‘well you can’t tackle’.
“Torreira can do that role for him.”
Danny Welbeck was handed his first league start of the season at Craven Cottage.