While some believe that Arsenal have finally broken through the glass ceiling which has prevented them from winning the league for a decade, others feel that the same, long-held issues still exist within the squad.
They had an excellent weekend, taking three points while the other big boys drew or lost.
Bt Arsene Wenger’s continued resistance to bringing some muscle into the side is exasperating. Surely he knows better than most that this is a physical game which requires grit as well as guile?
Arsenal are still in a good position in the league but this, of all seasons, should be seen as the opportunity to take the bull by the horns while others are in transition – they haven’t done that yet.
And in Europe it will take a huge performance if they are going to maintain three record of always qualifying for the knockout phase of The Champions League.
The fact that they have a raft of injuries really doesn’t help the situation for Arsenal. But we still feel they can do it. And, without wishing to tempt fate, we have a sneaking feeling that they will win by two goals or by one goal with a big scoreline.
So to those injuries. Definitely out:
ALEXIS SANCHEZ, FRANCIS COQUELIN, SANTI CAZORLA, MIKEL ARTETA, JAKC WILSHERE, TOMAS ROSICKY AND DANYY WELBECK
It looks as if everyone else has a chance to make the squad. It may be too early to start Theo Walcott after another lengthy injury but he can job share with The Ox, as on Saturday.
That would leave the quietly impressive Joel Campbell on the other flank, which offers a decent balance and pace.
We would give Gabriel the job of partnering Laurent Koscielny in defence particularly away form home where pace is required to stem attacks.
Other than that, the team largely picks itself with so many out injured. It’s a solid line up but one which also has 5 genuine goal threats in Campbell, Ozil, Ramsey, Giroud and Ox. Arsenal also have a match-winner on the bench in the shape of Theo Walcott.
So here is our stab at the best team to take the points in Greece.
Arsenal fans: does this team have enough fire power to win by two goals?
Ogban
Dec 8, 2015 at 2:37 am
Naaaaa, leave Mert in that back four. We need his calming influence. I agree with your team otherwise. If we need to play on the counter, Walcott can be introduced