Rodri full of praise for Arsenal star Martin Zubimendi

Manchester City midfielder Rodri was full of praise for Arsenal star Martin Zubimendi following Spain's 3-0 win over Bulgaria in a World Cup qualifier.

Zubimendi has been fantastic from the number six role for La Roja over the past year in the absence of Rodri, who has been recovering from a knee injury.

Rodri is back in the squad after an extended period, but the City ace has acknowledged that he has handed over the keys to Zubimendi to succeed in the role.

He said: "He’s a great player. He has the discipline & mentality that can lead him to become one of the best, if he isn’t already.

"I spoke to him the other day & told him it was his time, that I was leaving him the keys to the team."

Zubimendi has started against Turkey on the road tonight and it is quite clear that Rodri has given up his place for the Gunners man.

The onus is now on Zubimendi to prove his credentials in the centre of the park and ensure he keeps his place in the starting line-up.