The more realistic Arsenal fans, and fans of football alike, would probably have the feeling that the title race this season is over and done with. Chelsea might have something to say about that, but well how many times does a team like Man Utd throw away a six-point lead, with five games remaining?
The professionals would certainly look back at this season and will conclude that dropped points, and sub-par performances from teams at both ends of the league, as the reasons for such a topsy-turvy season. The relegation battle looks to be the closest for at least 5 years, and though the race for the title is pretty much over, the race for the final Champions League spot is still in the balance, and if Man Utd somehow manage to do something out of this world, then Chelsea will be on hand to pounce.
One of the most saddening things this seasons from a fans perspective has to be Arsenal's season. The Gunners fans, well most of them, have even called for the manager's head, and as far as I remember, that is the first time in the Wenger era. Personally, I feel that this is premature, as the man has done wonders for the club, though some might say that nothing lasts forever. If Arsene was to be replaced, then there are not many out there who could come in and do some magic right away. Some names who have been mentioned are Frank Rijkaard, Marco Van Basten, and interestingly, Porto's manager, Andre Villas-Boas. Talks in Portugal are that is the 'New-Mourinho'. (The man has guided Porto to an Unbeaten season as of yet, and his footballing philosophy of playing attractive football will certainly entice the pioneer clubs out there, and it will most definitely be a good 'selling' point). For now though, I would like to leave the talk of Wenger leaving to the people in charge, and will concentrate on other more important points.
With the remaining five games, (four each for United and Chelsea), I think Arsene Wenger should try to spice things up, and maybe do likewise tactically. At the moment, the players look slightly jaded both physically and mentally. Whatever the reason may be, the issue has yet to have been dealt with, and has proven costly points wise, and thus derailing Arsenal on their 'title run-in', though there will be groups of people who might question whether the Gunners have earned the tag of having a title run-in in the first place.
Personally, I feel that the Boss should try and make a couple of positional changes which could prove to make a huge difference, and with their position in the table now, I doubt that he has much to lose by doing so. A couple of Gunners who have been caught the eye recently are Abou Diaby and also Emmanuel Eboue. Yes, I do hear some people saying that Eboue was at fault for conceding the penalty against Liverpool, but that was a mere one-off. iaby meanwhile, has performed admirably in the last two games, and surprisingly enough, came against Liverpool and Spurs. The lanky Frenchman excelled in the defensive role of the midfield trio, and will certainly been a plus-point in the past two draws. He also brings something extra to the plate, in that he is more comfortable with the ball, and also has quick feet, which is essential in moments when the middle of the part is suffocated.
Another important positional change is with Jack Wilshere. The young sensation has been the most consistent performer in a red jersey this season, and has probably suffered as a result. In the past couple of games, he has looked sub-par, and I do not blame him. The rumours that surround him about the England U-21 situation does not do anything to help. Currently, he is being deployed alongside the defensive midfielder and has a role of helping out the defense at times. His license to attack is thus a more controlled one, and in turn, does not have as much of an opportunity as Fabregas to express himself on the field. Coupled with his exceptional eye for a pass, his undoubted ability to dribble the ball and look so effortless. This is vindication that his talent is not being fully utilised in a more defensive position. I think this is foundation to make him play in a more advanced position in midfield. I would like to see him swap places with Fabregas, in that the Spaniard becomes a deep-lying playmaker, whereby he has more time and space to sting teams with those defense-splitting passes of his. This will in turn allow Wilshere to receive the ball further up the pitch and he has more ability than Fabregas to go pass defenders. The Englishman is also extremely clever with one-twos and will benefit the likes of Walcott and Nasri on the flanks, not forgetting Dutch maestro van Persie.
Another point I would like to highlight is the twitching of position of Walcott from the right to the left or central. With his pace, he can trouble anyone in the world. If he constantly switches wings with Samir Nasri, then teams will indeed find it harder to read Arsenal's game. It is evident this season that Walcott's finishing this season has been admirable, and now there is more end product to his speedy runs. In previous seasons, some people would say that highlight involving the winger was his fast runs, but nothing more. Wenger has said in the past that Walcott does have similarities to Arsenal great Thierry Henry, and if that is the case, Walcott should be at least given a chance left or better, centrally.
The important thing is that whoever plays up front, the three have to be mobile and constantly interchange. Man-marking will be eliminated if Wenger deploys this tactic. The Professor has said that he would not splash the cash to bring in reinforcements in the summer, thus, it remains to be seen as to who will be brought in if any, and that certain personnel have to leave the club.
Till next time,
Goodbye.
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