Arsenal has long been associated with impregnable defences. Superb organization and fantastic man marking defenders were the hallmarks of many an Arsenal triumph over the years. To watch Arsene's defenders during the last two seasons have proven to be quite painful. Tony Adams, Martin Keown, Steve Bould and Nigel Winterburn must all be wondering how it has gone so wrong. Two own goals in one game is more dismal than watching a Jamie Carragher own goal!
Since the departures of William Gallas and Kolo Toure, Arsenal have been short of defensive steel and it has showed. Last season, Arsenal were in the leading positions until they famously capitulated defensively at Newcastle (4-4) and Spurs (2-3 and 3-3).
And yet, Arsene Wenger did not sign a top defensive midfielder nor did he splash the cash for Gary Cahill. Thomas Vermaelen threatened briefly to be that defensive stalwart but he is now the new "Sicknote". Per Mertesacker for all his experience, could be found out in the hustle bustle of the Premiership. Furthermore, an English spine is desperately needed if Arsenal plans on winning trophies.
On a more positive note, Mikel Arteta's arrival has already borne dividends. He has fitted in nicely into the Arsenal system, scoring a perfect goal against Blackburn last Saturday. His passing was exemplary on the day and he is growing more familiar with his new team mates match by match. Arteta is just growing from strength to strength, proving what a super signing he could turn out to be.
Just one more video to highlight just how unreliable this Arsenal "famed" defence had become, look no further than the error which led to Birmingham lifting the Carling Cup last season. Shocking!
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment