TFG
Having witnessed our lame display against Leeds, I genuinely wonder what conclusions scouts representing West Ham and Ipswich may have drawn. It has often been said that Arsenal have an inability to learn from their mistakes. Whilst I welcome the replay - defeat unthinkable for me against an entirely average Leeds team - the emphasis of approach reaped what was sewn.
I do not claim originality in observing that it would be far more prudent to start a game of this nature with the strongest team; build a lead and then rest key players: allowing reserve or returning players time to play under relatively less pressure. Of course, the counter argument is that players get “burned out”, however, prior to the replay at Elland Road, we now know that a home tie against Huddersfield Town awaits the winner – hardly a glamour draw, but one which would ensure a further £3million gate receipts and (dare I say) the opportunity for an extended cup run. Perhaps Mr. Gazidis would do well to remind M. Wenger of this – and his duty to our travelling support – before the team sheet is handed in for the replay.
At home, against inferior opposition, Arshavin had an opportunity to translate domination into an early goal, but spurned it, his energy apparently reserved for a withdrawal from action which did not transpire. Leeds grew in confidence. It is a familiar story – and one which has been relived by several teams who should have had no business prevailing on their travels, against “the best squad which Arsene Wenger has worked with”.
Ipswich were humbled by a Chelsea team who themselves have recently been beaten with a regularity such that a section of their crowd was calling for both Ancelotti and Abramovich to leave. Whilst I would rejoice at this prospect, mindful of the fate that befell our most recent visitors, I cannot help but be fascinated by the depth of both their stupidity and goldfish – like memories. Luckily, their history is limited to the last decade, relieving followers of “Chels” from stretching themselves unduly. I digress – my point being that if Chelsea can beat Ipswich in this fashion, it should be possible for Arsenal to record consecutive victories against them. My conviction in that belief has been tempered by the nature of the fare available on Saturday.
In fairness, there were several positives to enjoy. Sanchez Watt appears to be an exciting prospect; although it seemed quintessentially Arsenal to permit his addition to the away team. Johan Djourou's assured performance was again extremely heartening, whilst Sczesny looked solid for the most part; making more than one vital save and unlucky not to save from the spot when Denilson gifted Leeds their window of hope. In light of Cesc Fabregas’ reaffirmation of loyalty, his value to this team was once again confirmed upon his introduction – the penalty reminiscent of his kick at Stoke City last season. I could think of nobody whom I would rather have taken it, with the possible exception of Nasri. Clearly he cannot feature in every game; but before I am accused of contradicting my sentiments above, I would press the argument that quite simply, the squad is not deep enough to afford the luxury of Cesc, Nasri and Wilshire missing in tandem.
The negatives will give the Tractor Boys hope, even if West Ham could reasonably expect to face a far stronger Arsenal selection. I thought that we defended far too high a line to accommodate Squillaci's lack of pace and looked in danger from the breakaway. What Leeds offered was the extent of their capability – two banks of four and a committed work ethic. That is not to say that they did not have chances to win the game; but if they ultimately replace Wigan Athletic in the Premier League, I would imagine that Roberto Martinez might have some advice for Simon Grayson before facing Arsenal.
Squillaci had a poor game, but moan of the match belongs to Nicholas Bendtner. Undeniably, if he was half as good as he thought he was, he would be world class. Yes, he scored some timely and important goals last season, but in this contest he was awful. Clearly, he has no-confidence issues to which we could attribute his failure to cash the cheques which his ego regularly presents; we have to hope that he plays himself into form. They say that all good things come to those who wait – doubtless that will be the new motto at White Hart Lane. How Chamakh and not Bendtner was substituted mystified me.
On several occasions, it was an Arsenal player who cleared what danger team mates could muster. Typically, further profligacy negated other chances created. By half time, there was a sense that our predominately "second string" could be precariously situated. Predictably, after falling behind, the team applied greater urgency, although Kasper Schmeichel will have dealt with more threatening back passes than efforts typified by Theo Walcott’s attempted lob when played through. His post match admission, in respect of his dive was perplexing. I do not condone cheating, but it strikes me as strange that a manager who abuses the art of spin to an extent which would make a politician blush, might permit such candour. Enter Señor Fabregas, to spare a horrible embarrassment but necessitate a game which most Gooners would have deemed undesirable at kick off and unlikely as the match drew towards its end. Andrey Arshavin admitted as much on his often bizarre website.
The obvious question raised is simply: what is our first choice eleven and how can we rotate effectively? It is rumoured that Sol Campbell has been considered for another stint, as cover. With due respect, this is contradictory of Arsene Wenger’s refusal to recruit experience, for fear of “killing” the likes of Bendtner. Whilst we have enjoyed Campbell’s contribution to our successes immensely, it would be an extremely regressive step – I would hope that we are looking to the future, whatever changes they may bring. David Beckham was a world class player – but he is playing in the MLS now because he cannot sustain that level in more established leagues. Landon Donovan did well for Everton; but I remain convinced that such moves reflect on the paucity of personnel available.
If we assume that the goalkeeping department may yet prove previous fears wrong, then we need to consider where money could be prudently spent. I am aware that some took exception to my views that Almunia, Clichy, Bendtner, Rosicky, Denilson and Vela might not be indispensable – I do not apologise – let me add van Persie to that list and ponder whom else can be relied upon before upsetting folk again. I would keep faith with Szczesny and hope that Gibbs can stay fit sufficiently to displace Clichy. Vermaelen and Djourou would be my preferred pairing in the middle – again, fitness being a major obstacle – with Sagna on the right. I much prefer Koscielny to Squillaci as deputy at centre back, but so long as the two are not played together, we could survive until the summer with what we have. Ideally, a world class centre back should be brought in – the importance of Vidic to Manchester United being my supporting evidence.
Arsenal have no natural winger at the club – it is a shame that we did not sign Affelay, but not surprising. Arshavin and Walcott are not best suited to the wide roles, but the alternatives can only be drawn from those names who I have mentioned as being questionable – to derive the best from Chamakh, this needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. In midfield, sensible rotation would not adversely affect the contributions of Nasri, Cesc, Wilshere and hopefully, a fully fit Aaron Ramsey upon his eventual return to match fitness. There is an argument to play all four in certain games, when Song in not available, or alternatively, to rotate between him and Wilshere. Up front, we have greater quantity than quality on present form – it is about time that Theo Walcott is given his opportunity in the middle – the opportunity cost being less pronounced than perhaps it ought to be.
In summary, games like the draw with Leeds United demonstrate that there appears to be a significant lack of strength in depth. As Manager of the Decade, I would have thought that M. Wenger should consider two players at least – Vertonghen would offer flexibility in defence and midfield, whilst I really think that a “star signing” would lift us if it were a quality wide player. My suggestion, having seen his ability at this year’s Emirates Cup, would be Michel Bastos – since more obvious targets will be subject to the mega millions of the select few, which Arsenal cannot currently hope to compete with.
