Ex-England pair reject Desailly claims for Arsenal defender Saliba

Arsenal defender William Saliba has earned praise from two typically harsh pundits.

The English duo of Martin Keown and Rio Ferdinand have spoken highly of the French centre half.

Saliba was criticiaed by his countryman and former Chelsea defender Marcel Desailly.

The former Chelsea defender claimed: "I don't believe his individual qualities to be above average. He's at a very, very high level but not extraordinary."

"I really can't understand that [Desailly's comments]. I think Saliba has the complete skill set," Keown told TNT Sports before Wednesday's win over Sevilla.

'I think he's right now one of the best defenders in Europe. He has everything you need. His pace is phenomenal. His power. He reads the situation really well.

We love having him at Arsenal because he's physical and has everything you need. He's aggressive and I think he has everything he needs. I am really surprised by that comment."

"I don't think Marcel Desailly has watched enough of him," Ferdinand added.

"He might have seen one game or half a game. But his consistency has been fantastic.

He's the main man. He's going to grow into a leader at this football club. That position demands concentration and minutes on the pitch. Saliba's producing performances way beyond his years."