Just a few months ago Kieran Gibbs looked like a nailed on starter in the left back position at Arsenal. He looked to have shed the inconsistency that comes with youth and finally cemented his place in the side.
At that point, after a dreadful spell in the centre of the defence, Nacho Monreal looked as if he’s be sold before long. But how things change. While Gibbs is great going forward he still let’s himself down in the defending department at times. Meanwhile Monreal kept his head down and fought his way into the side.
He may not have the dynamism of Gibbs. But what he lacks in raw pace he more than makes up for with his canny defending and composure on the ball. He has won the hearts and minds of the Arsenal fans to the extent that, when we suggested Gibbs should start against Burnley this weekend, the idea was thrown out by many of you.
In truth, the mobility of Gibbs has been trumped by the all round game of Monreal. He’s solid, intelligent and still offers threat going forward for Arsenal.
It’s quite an achievement for a player who was getting roundly slated just 6 months ago. Monreal looked a certainty for the exit door last Autumn but now he’s a certaiin starter.
Arsenal fans: is Monreal your most improved player?
Plone
Apr 9, 2015 at 10:46 pm
Coquelin.