The huge importance of Per Mertesacker to Arsenal by MH
Hi Gooners
Once again we came away with all 3 points. The win against Everton was very important and I was very nervous before the match as we have given our all against a good Watford side and an excellent Bayern Munich side, also we have struggled against Everton for the past few seasons.
The game started well – we were defending well and at other end creating chances, but in the second half it got nervy in last 30-35 minutes as Everton were very threatening on the counter. A few time we were suspect in our defending. Now Gabby and Koscielny make good pair, but the problem is the communication gap between them as Gabriel is still learning the English language. At that time I felt the importance of Per was obvious. There was no one shouting at the defenders. No one organising them. No one telling the others to backtrack and mark Everton wingers. As a result Everton were finding spaces. If not for the brilliant Cech and that awesome tackle by Gabby it could have been a different result, as that was definitely not one of days when we were having luck on our side.
I don’t know about you all but I have see Per rejuvenated after his return from illness. He seems more calm, composed, focused, and has been excellent in almost all the matches he had played. He is like a general who keeps our defence organised at all times.
Also he is the one natural leader on the pitch. He is our true captain. When ever he is not on pitch his influence and experience is sorely missed. This is the reason why Arsene thinks of so highly of him, and our best performances of last few seasons have came with Per in our defence.
Therefore for this season I believe that Per and the Boss are still #1 CB pairing for me.
Mir