Arsenal midfield star Granit Xhaka was the topic of discussion between Andy Murray and Roger Federer when the former landed in Switzerland for the Swiss Indoors tournament, claiming the footballer was "one of the world's greatest athletes". It comes amid a fantastic run of form for the 30-year-old, who has become a fans' favourite once again.
Xhaka has thrived in a new role under Mikel Arteta, playing in a more advanced position on the left of midfield, and becoming more involved in the attacking side of the game. The Swiss international now has four goals and three assists to his name across all competitions this season, ranking as the second top scorer at the club with his latest strike against Southampton on Sunday.
"He deserves that," Arteta said in praise of his midfielder after scoring the winner in the PSV clash last week. "He has faced adversity in difficult moments. He put his arm up when he had something different to do. His work ethic, the way he is as a person, the way he treats everyone around the club, and his love for this football club and profession is unquestionable, he fully deserves that, and I'm really happy to see him enjoying his career."
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His form has made him a favourite amongst the fans again, who have begun chanting his name at games again after his resurgence in midfield. It's been so impressive that he has been the centre of a funny exchange between two of tennis' greatest ever stars.
Speaking to Aargauer Zeitung, Andy Murray said: "I messaged Roger [Federer], when I landed in Basel, and I said: 'I just touched down in the city of one of the world's greatest ever athletes: Granit Xhaka. I know that Granit Xhaka is from here. I'm a huge Arsenal fan. Xhaka is playing really, really well this season. He scored another wonderful goal on Sunday."
Federer is considered one of the world's greats in the sport, has recently hung up his racket and retired from tennis, turning down the chance to appear at the Swiss Indoor tournament that's taking place. It's what led to the hilarious exchange, though form would certainly suggest the statement on Xhaka may not be entirely incorrect either.
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