Eberechi Eze’s limited Arsenal playing time may be linked to the weaknesses Roy Keane identified in his game: inconsistent work without the ball and occasional sloppiness in possession.Despite his lack of regular club football, Thomas Tuchel selected Eze for England’s latest squad, and the midfielder featured in the team’s last three matches. He was given only 20 minutes against Croatia, and Keane felt he failed to make enough of the opportunity.Keane’s criticismKeane questioned whether Eze was unwilling to make the necessary runs or simply unaware that he was not doing enough. He also described parts of his performance as “really sloppy” and said similar moments had appeared in Eze’s Arsenal performances.The Metro reports that Keane said Eze did not show enough intensity when England were out of possession: “We know how good he is coming and getting the ball, but we didn’t see that running power off the ball [against Croatia].”The former Manchester United midfielder’s point is that Eze’s technical quality is not in doubt. He is effective when receiving the ball and attacking defenders, but he must contribute more consistently when his team does not have possession.Eberechi Eze (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)Why it matters at ArsenalAt Arsenal, Eze faces competition from several attacking players. If he does not press aggressively, track runners or make purposeful movements away from the ball, his technical strengths may not be enough to secure regular selection.His languid playing style can also make mistakes appear more noticeable. Keane was not arguing that Eze should completely change his natural game, but that he needed to “tighten everything up” and eliminate the sloppy moments.That could explain why Eze has struggled for consistent game time despite being selected by England. Arsenal may value his creativity, but Mikel Arteta is unlikely to overlook defensive discipline and intensity in a highly competitive squad.Eze’s involvement with England gives him a chance to respond. Keane’s message was not that the midfielder lacks ability; rather, he believes Eze must show greater urgency whenever an opportunity arrives. A stronger contribution without the ball would make it harder for Arsenal to leave him out._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsRoy Keane says Arsenal man can be too sloppy on the ball7 October 2026, 13:00Man Utd believes Arsenal man is the solution to a problem on their team7 October 2026, 12:00Julian Alvarez makes decision that could affect his future amidst Arsenal interest7 October 2026, 10:30The post Roy Keane says Arsenal man can be too sloppy on the ball appeared first on Just Arsenal News.