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Gary Neville endorsed Mikel Arteta's decision to substitute Christos Tzolis at half-time during the match against Aston Villa. The expert noted that the winger faced significant challenges against Matty Cash and had already received a yellow card by that point.

Gary Neville supports Mikel Arteta's decision to take off Christos Tzolis during the first half of Arsenal's match against Aston Villa. The new arrival had a difficult time contending with Matty Cash and was booked before the interval.

Commenting on Tzolis' substitution for Eberechi Eze, Neville said:

I’m not surprised he was replaced, and it’s not just about the yellow card. He was really struggling on that flank. Matty Cash was very aggressive against him.

The 24-year-old Tzolis picked up a warning and committed a foul on John McGinn in the 37th minute. In a bid to avoid any further risk, Arteta opted for a change at half-time, bringing on Eze for the Greek winger.

After the break, Arsenal scored the only goal of the match, with Riccardo Calafiori joining the attack and assisting Bukayo Saka, who secured a 1-0 victory for the London side.

Neville also praised this combination:

That was a brilliant goal. Arsenal are very patient and so confident in their defence that they don’t need to rush. Calafiori played exceptionally well.