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MIKEL ARTETA has acted fast after Christos Tzolis reportedly ‘leaked’ Arsenal team news with an update to his fantasy football side.
Arteta, 44, has reportedly introduced a new rule banning team members from including Gunners stars in their fantasy line-ups.
The Arsenal boss has acted to prevent further leaks after Tzolis, 24, inadvertently indicated that he was starting last week against Liverpool, according to now.arsenal.
Left winger Tzolis had opted to include himself in his own fantasy team’s starting line-up, correctly suggesting his involvement in the fixture.
Starting XIs have become one of football’s most closely-guarded secrets, with teams not announced until just 75 minutes before kick-off.
But fears are rising among clubs that fantasy football could be used to predict the sides teams will field.
Tzolis previously explained that he has captained himself on the game to inspire strong performances on several occasions.
Arteta’s new guidance came into effect ahead of their clash with Hull at the Emirates.
The move impacts both players and staff, with Arteta hoping to prevent leaks by any means necessary.
Tzolis has seemingly adhered to the new rule by removing all Arsenal players from his squad and wildcard this week.
Saturday 7 November
Fulham
Newcastle
Arsenal
Hull
Leeds
Spurs
Friday 6 November
Everton
Coventry
Monday 2 November
Newcastle
Everton
He has not been alone, with an unnamed staff member also doing the same, showing the new rule in effect.
The Gunners continue to fly high as they look to defend their Premier League title, leading Manchester City by three points ahead of this weekend.
Arteta has opted to drop Viktor Gyokeres to the bench as they prepare to face Hull this afternoon.
SunSport has approached Arsenal for comment.