Rio Ferdinand predicts exciting future for Arsenal's set-piece coach Nicolas Jover

The Gunners' set-piece specialist was acknowledged for his significant contribution to Sunday's victory in the north London derby against Tottenham. The only goal of the closely-fought match was scored from a carefully planned set-piece, showcasing the effectiveness of the team's tactics.

Jover’s reputation as a dead ball coaching expert was initially earned at Brentford, before he gained further notoriety as Manchester City who hired him on Mikel Arteta’s recommendation.

The Arsenal manager pulled off a major coup when he convinced the German-born Frenchman to move to north London and his impact on Arsenal, both offensively and defensively, has been remarkable.

Gabriel Magalhaes’ bullet header from Bukayo Saka’s expertly delivered cross represented the 17th goal Arsenal have scored from a corner since the start of last season and 42nd from a set piece since Jover was prised from City in three years ago.

And while he might be an expert in his field, Ferdinand believes it won’t be long before the 42-year-old begins to harbour loftier ambitions and wants to take on greater responsibility.

‘I used to hate standing about in the cold doing set-pieces, the Manchester United legend told Rio Ferdinand Presents.

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‘It’s the worst thing, nobody enjoys it. The difference at Arsenal will be that they’re now seeing the benefits abd licking their lips.

‘They will be going bring it on, give us another set-piece drill, give us something new. That guy is going to be walking about like he is the Don.

‘If he’s not a manager within three years I’ll be surprised. He’ll be a manager somewhere I bet you.’

Arteta, meanwhile, singled Jover out for praise in the wake of a third straight win for his side at the Tottenham Stadium.

He said: ‘In his field, in other fields, as a person, the relationship that we have, that’s why I made a decision to bring him to City when I was there and then to Arsenal.

‘Him and the staff, they have injected the belief to the players that there are many ways to win football matches and that this is a really powerful one.

‘He’s given us a lot, so big compliment to all of them.’