Granit Xhaka has revealed that he has started the season playing through an achilles injury, as the Swiss captain took part in his country's 4-0 win over Gibraltar.
The Arsenal midfielder has failed to avoid criticism from the Gunner's faithful over his performances so far this season, but the 26-year-old admitted he has not been fully fit from the outset.
Speaking after Sunday's win, in which he was withdrawn after 74 minutes, he said: ‘I’ve been suffering from Achilles tendon pain for a few weeks now. I felt it during the game.
‘It hurts now, but it should be okay otherwise.’
Xhaka has failed to alleviate concerns among Arsenal fans over his selection in Unai Emery's midfield.